Matias Riccitelli – Semillon ‘Old Vines From Patagonia’, Rio Negro – 2021-23

PRODUCER NOTE:
Matias Riccitelli is the son of renowned winemaker Jorge Riccitelli. Having worked at some of the most prestigious wineries in Argentina and several vintages around the world, Matias used his experience, knowledge and passion and set up his own winery in 2009. His vineyards cover 50 hectares located in three selected sites within the premium growing region of Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza. This is a young and dynamic project in which Matias is seeking to express the full potential of Argentine terroir.

VINEYARD:
This Semillon was sourced from forgotten vines that are over 50 years old. These old vineyards are located in Río Negro in Patagonia, at an altitude of 400 metres above sea level on the 39° latitude south. Sunlight exposure is more intense than northern areas, but at this latitude the nights are much colder. This daily diurnal temperature range is excellent for the production of quality grapes; the nightly cooling-off extends the ripening period, allowing the grapes to develop rich varietal characteristics while retaining balancing acidity.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were harvested at perfect maturity levels into small cases of 20kg in order to maintain the integrity of each cluster. A meticulous selection by hand was performed prior to a skin maceration of 48 hours at 10°C. 60% of the must was fermented in used French oak barrels and 40% was fermented in concrete eggs, at low temperature between 14° and 16°C. Maturation lasted for six months with 60% aged in French oak barrels and 40% in concrete eggs.

TASTING NOTE:
This wine has all the seriousness, subtleness, elegance and nuances that old Semillon is capable of. Complex and elegant aromas of citrus, white flowers and vanilla lead to a perfectly balanced palate, with an elegant finish.

GRAPE:
Semillon 100%.

COUNTRY:
Argentina

REGION:
Patagonia

SUB-REGION:
Rio Negro