Familia Zuccardi ‘Q’ Old Vine Tempranillo

Sebastian Zuccardi, grandson of the founder, is now in charge at this trailblazing family winery. Rapidly establishing himself as one of the great winemaking talents of Argentina, he is determined to alter the world’s perception of Malbec and evolve our understanding of what Mendoza has to offer. He talks of not seeking perfect wines, but those that express the place, the region. His vision is not altitude, it is terroir: terroir honed and shaped by the icy Andes flood waters whose power brought the rocks and boulders that now form the sub-soils of many of the very best vineyards. Frequently pictured waist deep in a muddy hole in one of these vineyards, these rocks not only form part of the vineyard but in their new winery, they form the building and the fermentation vessels. At the forefront of the movement towards greater fruit purity, Sebastian’s wines are the most convincing argument for the use of concrete fermentation and ageing vessels and, as a result, for the movement towards a greater understanding of the potential of Malbec and of Argentina in general. Though we may be a little biased, it is fair to say that Sebastian is amongst the most influential young winemakers on the planet.

Vineyards

Zuccardi Q Tempranillo is sourced from selected old vines from Santa Rosa vineyards in Mendoza.

Vinification

Selected bunches. Tanks are filled by gravity. Fermented in concrete vats with native yeast with a soft extraction by delestage and pigeage. Skin maceration after fermentation for 20-25 days. Full malolactic fermentation and oak ageing.

Tasting Notes

This is a wine of great structure with notes of tobacco, leather and chocolate. It can be enjoyed now but will also age beautifully over several years.

Great with grilled/roasted red meats, pizza or really versatile for tapas.