Salentein, Bodegas

In the remote upper reaches of Argentinas Uco Valley on the eastern slopes of the Andes, Bodegas Salentein produces a remarkable collection of wines from vineyards planted at some of the highest elevations on the planet. From this lofty outpost, 65 miles south of the bustling city of Mendoza, Argentina's winemaking capital, Bodegas Salentein (Sah-len-tyne) has forged an international reputation for its fine wines. Each year, growing numbers of curious wine lovers are drawn to this spectacular location, intent on discovering and experiencing the beauty and ethos of Bodegas Salentein for themselves. Bodegas Salentein is a wine destination like no other. Established in the late 1990s, Salentein is a privately-owned estate of almost 5,000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. The property includes a world-class winery and cellars, a 125-acre nature preserve, the showpiece Killka Center for Culture and the Arts, a nearby lodge (the Posada Salentein, offering an elegant and relaxed retreat into nature), and the landmark Chapel of Gratitude, a non-denominational chapel of ascetic loveliness, built using ancient local stonework techniques. "Salentein Gran VU Blend represents the deep commitment that Bodegas Salentein has made in the Valley de Uco. This wine is the crowning glory of years of work and research in our quest to understand the terroir that we have identified and selected to produce the best wines in Argentina. Having taken this trajectory with grapes from many different regions of Mendoza, I am convinced that we have found the vineyards and varietals to perfect this blend. Gran VU Blend is a paean to the Valley de Uco and the wines of Argentina." - Jos Galante

Malbec grapes come from Salenteins estate Los Cerezos Vineyard - The Cherry Trees - named for its location at the foot of an old cherry plantation. Complex aromas of black fruits and floral notes. The palate has a good structure with very fine tannins, chalky texture, notes of black fruits and pepper supported by refreshing acidity, and a lingering finish.

Malbec grapes were sourced from the Los Jabales vineyard, named for the wild boars that inhabit the area, situated at an elevation of 4,600 feet above sea level in the San Pablo GI of the Uco Valley. Complex aromas of black fruits, violets, and figs. The palate is concentrated with silky tannins, notes of graphite, refreshing acidity, and a long finish.

Deep, dark red in color with intense violet glints. Complex nose, notable dark berries, and raspberries, with notes of blackcurrant and spices. Quite evident acidity in the mouth, elegant, full-bodied, good tannic structure. Long, persistent finish.

Intense ruby red color with deep bluish hues. On the nose, it is delicate and complex with aromas reminiscent of blackcurrant combined with notes of dried tomatoes, licorice, and black pepper. On the palate, it is intense with notes of black fruit and peppers. Full-bodied with firm, rounded and pleasant tannins followed by a long finish.

Complex aromas of plum, blueberries, and blackberries mingled with subtle floral and balsamic notes. The palate is elegant with a very good structure, sweet tannins, and excellent acidity with a long, pleasant finish.

Aromas of peppers and blackcurrant mingled with notes of licorice and black pepper. Well-structured palate with fruity notes and a pleasant lingering finish.

Bright yellow color with green tint. Aromas of citrus fruit and white peach with a hint of floral notes. Soft and refreshing palate with fruity and mineral notes.

Barrel-aged for 12 to 14 months, resulting in a wine with intense aromas of ripe plums, cherries and spice that are complemented by a hint of tobacco. Ripe red berries, balanced acidity and sweet tannins lead to a deliciously long finish.

Vivid violet red in color. Floral aromas, highlighted by violet and earthy notes, combined with hints of blackcurrant. Juicy in the mouth with notes of tobacco leaf and a long finish.

Aromas of roasted red pepper, spices, such as black pepper, and subtle minty notes. Soft and silky tannins on the palate with notes of black fruits and tobacco.

Bodegas Salentein is a wine destination like no other. Established in the late 1990s, Salentein is a privately-owned estate of almost 5,000 acres, of which 1,124 acres are planted to vine. The property includes a world-class winery and cellars, a 125-acre nature preserve, the showpiece Killka Center for Culture and the Arts, a nearby lodge (the Posada Salentein, offering an elegant and relaxed retreat into nature), and the landmark Chapel of Gratitude, a non-denominational chapel of ascetic loveliness, built using ancient local stonework techniques.