Why it matters
The producer
Hervé Birnie Scott came to Argentina in 1992 to establish a fine still wine program alongside Chandon's sparkling wine production. Terrazas de los Andes grew from that project. After several years spent refining viticulture, the first Reserva Malbec vintage was crafted in 1996 and introduced to the market in 1999.
The range includes hand harvested Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Torrontés. The Malbec tier includes Reserva Malbec, Grand Malbec and Extremo Malbec, connected to multiple plots, selected plots and a high altitude vineyard.
Place and vineyards
Where the wines begin
Most vineyards are in the Uco Valley, while the winery is in Luján de Cuyo. The vineyards lie on terraced plateaus from 980 to 1,800 metres above sea level. High altitude brings cooler nights that can slow ripening and preserve acidity. Daytime sunlight supports grape maturity.
For Malbec, these conditions can produce ripe fruit with fresh acidity. They also shape the Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Torrontés in the hand harvested range.
Wines to know
The range in view
Reserva Malbec is a multi plot Malbec wine. The 2017 vintage is 100% Malbec, hand harvested and aged 12 months in French oak. It has concentrated black fruit, fine medium tannins, and chamois leather, spice and mocha on the finish.
Grand Malbec uses selected plots and has site specific aromas, tannins, texture and acidity. Extremo Malbec is tied to a high altitude vineyard, with fruit, herbal notes, tannins, acidity and oak derived character. The range also includes hand harvested Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Torrontés.