Description

ABOUT THE PRODUCER:
Zorzal is an Argentinian boutique winery which has been 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 puts austerity before exuberance and fruit before 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.

THE VINTAGE:
2020 was one of the earliest and warmest vintages on record. With low rainfall throughout the season, a cool and dry winter was followed by a hot summer. The combination of no winter snow and hydric stress from the hot, dry summer meant that yields were significantly reduced. The berries were smaller and matured at a much quicker rate than usual. The harvest was brought forward by approximately one month in most cases. It was essential to pick at the right moment, to ensure good acidity balanced the mature tannins and concentrated flavours.2020 was one of the earliest and warmest vintages on record. With low rainfall throughout the season, a cool and dry winter was followed by a hot summer. The combination of no winter snow and hydric stress from the hot, dry summer meant that yields were significantly reduced. The berries were smaller and matured at a much quicker rate than usual. The harvest was brought forward by approximately one month in most cases. It was essential to pick at the right moment, to ensure good acidity balanced the mature tannins and concentrated flavours.

ABOUT THE VINEYARD:
The grapes are grown in a high altitude, drip irrigated single vineyard in Tupungato, Gualtallary, in the outstanding vine-growing area of the Uco Valley. Located at 1,350 metres above sea-level, Gualtallary is the highest vine-growing zone in the Province of Mendoza, situated at the foot of the Tupungato volcano. This zone is characterised by its combination of altitude, alluvial soils, sunny days, low rainfall and wide temperature ranges. The diurnal temperatures here oscillate between 35°C and 17°C, creating long, slow ripening periods; concentrating the flavours in the fruit while retaining refreshing balance. The cool climate and white chalky soil, impart great structure and a delicious acidity to the wine.

THE WINEMAKING PROCESS:
The grapes were gently pressed and transferred to the cement eggs; 50% of the fruit was vinified with skin contact. Fermentation started naturally with native yeasts at temperatures of between 18 to 21°C. When fermentation was complete, a partial malolactic conversion took place. The wine was then left in the same cement eggs for nine months, without separating it from the lees, which generated volume on the palate. It was bottled directly from the cement egg. The cement egg significantly helps with the structuring and stabilisation of the wine, through the natural movements that are created by this shape.

OUR TASTING NOTES:
A characterful and bright Sauvignon Blanc showcasing mineral intensity combined with enticing white peach notes. The wonderful volume and texture on the palate is balanced by a refreshing acidity, through to a persistent finish.

GRAPE VARIETY:
Sauvignon Blanc 100%.