Description

PRODUCER:
Zorzal is an Argentinian boutique winery dedicated to the production of high-quality wines since 2008 and is located at the highest point of the Uco Valley. Hailed as one of the most exclusive and well-regarded areas for viticulture in Argentina, the terroir is revealed in the Zorzal wines through a respectful, non-invasive winemaking process that prioritises austerity over exuberance and fruit over wood. The wines have rapidly gained international recognition. Founded by the Michelini brothers, who are outstanding in their passionate leadership in the vineyards and winery, this highly regarded winemaking duo have become renowned as the trendsetters of the Argentinian winemaking scene.

VINEYARD:
The grapes for Gran Terroir originate from a single vineyard, located in the upper central sector of Gualtallary, called Albo. The grapes are grown in a rocky soil with a high presence of calcium carbonate and granite. The mountain vineyards are located at 1,350 metres above sea-level in the region of Gualtallary, the highest vine-growing zone in the Province of Mendoza, situated at the foot of the Tupungato Volcano. This site is characterised by its combination of altitude, a high content of calcium carbonate in the soil, sunny days and low rainfall. The diurnal temperature ranges here oscillate between 35°C and 17°C, creating long, slow ripening periods, encouraging excellent polyphenolic maturity in the grapes, while retaining refreshing balance. The vines are trained on trellises, which provides good homogeneity, and the grapes are hand-harvested in boxes of 16kg.

WINEMAKING:
The grapes were vinified in concrete vats in a CO2-saturated environment, including 30%, which was vinified as whole bunches. Spontaneous fermentation took place with native yeasts at average temperatures of 24°C. The wine was matured for 12 months in 228-litre French oak barrels, of which 5% were new, and the remainder were a combination of 3rd, 4th and 5th-use barrels.

VINTAGE:
The 2023 vintage was one of extreme weather conditions; despite the challenges, some excellent wines were made. The winter was dry, followed by a cool spring. During budburst, devastating spring frosts attacked nascent buds in many vineyards, reducing yields. A long, hot summer followed; however, the vineyards at altitude benefited from the cooler nights, which helped to retain natural acidity. The wines show excellent concentration and texture.

TASTING NOTE:
An intriguing and complex Pinot Noir, with notes of graphite, gunpowder and volcanic minerality enveloping crunchy red fruit, showcasing mountain freshness.

GRAPES:
Pinot Noir 100%.