Appellation Malbec, Pedernal Valley

Appellation Malbec

  • Pedernal Valley, 
  • Mendoza, 
  • argentina

Latest Awards

  • 93 points #35 Top 100 Wines of 2023; Value Pick of the Week Wine Spectator , March 2023
  • 90 points Wine Advocate , November 2022
Background

Pyros Wines is a terroir-driven project created with the aim of positioning the Pedernal Valley at the top of Argentinean viticulture, through its distinctive soils and high altitudes. The diverse terroir and natural beauty were inspirations to Mijndert Pon, the founder of Bodegas Salentein and Bodegas Callia. His vision to showcase the exceptional fruit grown in the Pedernal Valley led to the creation of the region’s first wine brand, Pyros. Globally, the winery is leading the promotion of this singular valley with its experimental and micro vinification plantings, distinctive soils, and high altitudes. Their goal is to position the Pedernal at the top of Argentinean viticulture. Propelling these efforts is Pyros winemaker, Paula González, who is leading the experimental and research efforts at the winery.

TERROIR & VINTAGE NOTES

The Pedernal Valley is located southwest of the San Juan province, 56 miles from the San Juan City. Multiple mountain ranges have brought various soil types up to the surface, presenting a diverse treasure trove in the region, particularly limestone. The region has extremely high altitudes, with an average 4,600ft a.s.l. and is bordered by the Argentine “Cordillera Oriental” mountain range and the Andes. The cool, desert climate and high altitudes result in hugely varied temperature ranges, ensuring thicker skin development on the grapes and prolonging their ripening period. .These conditions result in wines with more intense color, expressive aromas and flavors, good tannic structure, and high natural acidity. This wine is sourced from different blocks of the estate and represents the most classic Malbec from the Pedernal.

Winemaking & Aging

Hand harvested at the end of March, usually during the night or at sunrise to avoid oxidation and to preserve primary aromas. Grapes are destemmed and immediately pre-fermented at a cool 50ºF immediately upon arrival at the winery and left for 72 hours. Fermentation follows for 10 days with both inoculated and native yeasts, followed by post-fermentation maceration for seven days. Aged in 2, 3, and 4-year-old French and American oak barrels, with 20% aging in stainless steel for 12 months. Aged for an addition 6 months in bottle.

Tasting Notes

Intense, with aromas of black cherry, spice, and violet. The wine has amazing grip but with silky, mineral-driven tannins taken from the uniqueness of the terroir, and flavors of blackberry and fresh cherries.

93
Points

The 2019 Malbec Pyros Appellation from the Pedernal Valley was 85% aged in used barrels for 12 months. Hailing from a vineyard that takes special care of native flora, the lovely, slightly liqueur-like nose presents notes of licorice, touches of amaretti, sour cherry and plum aromas with hints of herb and thyme. Quite smooth on the palate with slightly reactive, chalky tannins, it delivers moderate freshness and good flavor at the end. This is a new style for the house and the Pedernal Valley as a whole, adding an extra dimension. - J.H

Vinous - September 2022

93
Points
#35 Top 100 Wines of 2023; Value Pick of the Week

Exudes aromas that foreshadow what's to come, with a central chalky-slate presence and fresh violet and mountain herb nuances underneath. Features generous raspberry and plum flavors that are fresh and pure, buoyed by lively, chalky acidity. Ends with finesse and fine tannins. Drink now through 2030. —A.R.

Wine Spectator - March 2023

90
Points

The 2019 Appellation Malbec has intense aromas of honey and beeswax with an herbal, creamy and spicy twist, probably from the 12 months in French and American oak barrels. It's juicy and ripe without excess at 14% alcohol. It has fine, chalky tannins. Better with food. 95,000 bottles produced. -L.G.

Wine Advocate - November 2022

Appellation

Pedernal Valley

grape varieties

100% Malbec

Sizes

750ml

technical details
  • ABV: 14%
  • Closure: Cork
winemaker

Paula González

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Appellation Malbec, Pedernal Valley Appellation Malbec, Pedernal Valley

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