Nestled in the heart of Argentina, the Clos de Argentine vineyard stands as a testament to the country's rich wine-making tradition and its commitment to premium winemaking. A boutique winery located in the prestigious Gualtallary region of Valle de Uco, Clos de Argentine has carved a niche for itself in the global wine industry with its award-winning, terroir-expressive Malbecs and other Bordeaux varietals.
Founded by a group of French and Argentine investors in 1996, the winery was inspired by the legendary Clos de Vougeot in Burgundy, France. The name 'Clos de Argentine' pays homage to this influence, combining the French term 'Clos' (meaning an enclosed vineyard) with the Spanish word 'Argentine', reflecting the winery's South American roots.
The Terroir and Vineyards
Clos de Argentine's vineyards extend over 32 hectares (over 79 acres) at an altitude of 1,350 meters (4,429 feet) above sea level in the Uco Valley. This unique terroir, characterized by steep slopes, thin layer of soil, and intense sun exposure, creates ideal conditions for growing premium-quality grapes.
The vineyards are planted primarily with Malbec, the varietal that has become Argentina's signature grape, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The old vines, some of which are over 40 years old, are cultivated using sustainable viticulture practices, further enhancing the quality of the grapes and the wines they produce.
Wine Making Philosophy
Clos de Argentine's winemaking philosophy is centered around emphasizing the distinct characteristics of the terroir. The winery employs minimal intervention techniques, allowing the grapes' natural flavors and aromas to shine. Winegrower Andrés López works diligently to produce wines that are elegant and complex, true expressions of the unique Gualtallary terroir.
Each vineyard parcel is handled separately throughout the winemaking process. Upon arrival at the winery, grapes undergo rigorous sorting by hand, ensuring only the finest bunches make it into the final wine. The wines are then aged in French oak barrels for an extended period to develop their full potential and roundness.
Flagship Wines
Clos de Argentine's flagship wine, 'Lauva del C亲o,' is a benchmark Malbec that captures the essence of the Uco Valley. This powerful yet balanced wine is a popular choice among wine critics and enthusiasts alike. The winery also produces 'Piece Unique,' a limited release wine made from a tiny, exceptionally low-yielding vineyard parcel.
Other notable wines include 'Les Lerpas,' a blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, and 'Terroirs de Uco,' a range that showcases the unique micro-terroirs within the Uco Valley. Each wine in this range offers a distinct tasting experience, providing wine lovers with a captivating journey through the diverse wine landscapes of the region.
The Architectural Masterpiece
Beyond its world-class wines, Clos de Argentine is also renowned for its stunning, modernist architecture designed by Argentine architect uprising ibaspe. The winery's gravity-defying, vine-covered walls seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape, creating a unique and harmonious bond between the land and the structure.
The winery's striking design was inspired by the natural contours of the vineyard, with arched doorways andTreatment of delicate concrete tying the indoors and outdoors together. The elegant tasting room, with its floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive views of the vineyards, offers guests a breathtaking setting to enjoy the winery's exceptional wines.
The final paragraph in this article concludes that a visit to Clos de Argentine is an unparalleled wine country experience that combines the best of Argentina's wine culture with its stunning natural beauty. The winery's commitment to crafting exceptional wines, combined with its architectural masterpiece, makes it an unforgettable destination for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Booking a visit to Clos de Argentine is highly recommended, as the winery warmly welcomes visitors to explore its vineyards, learn about its winemaking process, and, of course, taste its impeccable wines.
