Uco Valley, Argentina
Environmental Practice: Organic, Vegan Friendly, Low Intervention & Sustainable Agriculture
Microvinified wines made with a true artisanal and natural concept, with meticulous care and personal monitoring. Agro-ecological grapes, respecting the environment, the people and the essence of the Terroir. Each bottle is the result of the conjunction of art, adrenaline and contemplation, understanding that everything is part of a process and that to obtain something unique with personality, the important thing is to advance "step by step".
Our goal is to make authentic wines, keeping traditional methods alive . There is nothing better to us than working in the vineyard, following the whole vine cycle and enjoying the evolution of the grapes.
We are also working hard to put in value and rescue some Criolle varieties from very old vines that are still alive in different terroirs within Mendoza.
The Team at Paso a Paso!
the essence of the uco valley delivered in a bottle!
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Criollas de Don Graciano White
PP1-W - Criolla Grande 50%, Moscatel 25%, Pedro Giménez 13%, Torrontés 12% - Montecaseros, San Martin, Mendoza - 12%
Winemaking Process: Las Criollas de Don Graciano White Field Blend 2022 is a celebration of diversity, bringing together Criolla Grande, Moscatel, Pedro Giménez, and Torrontés in a unique composition. The grapes, hand-harvested in small bins, reflect a commitment to quality. With a yield of 9,000 kg/ha, the wine is crafted with precision. The vineyard, located in Montecaseros, San Martin, Mendoza, is characterized by a deep clay loam soil and an altitude of 700 meters. The dessert-like climate, with annual rainfall lower than 200mm, sets the stage for the expression of these exceptional varieties.
Tasting Notes: Pale straw with greenish reflections Aromatic and lively, with notes of white flowers, citrus blossoms, and a hint of tropical fruits. The co-fermentation of the four varieties results in a well-balanced wine with a refreshing acidity. Flavors of green apple, peach, and a touch of floral sweetness create a harmonious palate. The absence of additives and the decision to keep it unfiltered showcase the pure expression of the grapes.
Food Pairings: Las Criollas de Don Graciano White Field Blend 2022 is a versatile wine that pairs well with a range of dishes. Enjoy it as an aperitif or pair it with fresh seafood, such as ceviche or grilled shrimp, to complement its vibrant acidity. The wine's aromatic profile also makes it suitable for pairing with salads featuring citrus elements or light, creamy cheeses. Its refreshing nature and diverse flavor profile make it an ideal choice for warm weather occasions. Serve chilled to fully appreciate its crisp and expressive character.
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Criollas de Don Graciano Clarete
PP1-R - 50% Criolla Grande 20% Moscatel Rosé 15% Torrontés 15% Pedro Giménez - Uco Valley - 12%
Winemaking Process: This wine is a blend of 50% Criolla Grande, 20% Moscatel Rosé, 15% Torrontés, and 15% Pedro Gimenez. The grapes are hand-harvested in small bins with yields of 9,000 kg/ha. The winemaking process begins with soft and gentle crushing to avoid damaging the berries. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks using native yeasts, without any additives. The wine undergoes skin maceration for 20 days and partial malolactic fermentation. The wine is produced unfined and unfiltered, resulting in a total production of 20,000 bottles. The alcohol content is 12.1%, and the total SO2 is 60 grams per liter.
Tasting Notes: This unique blend presents a harmonious bouquet of floral and fruity aromas. The Criolla Grande and Torrontés contribute vibrant notes of citrus and white flowers, while the Moscatel Rosé adds subtle hints of rose petals and lychee. The Pedro Gimenez imparts a touch of minerality and freshness. On the palate, the wine is light-bodied with a crisp acidity, showcasing flavors of ripe peach, apricot, and a delicate spiciness. The gentle maceration on the skins provides a smooth texture and a beautiful, pale color. The finish is clean and refreshing, with a lingering aftertaste of stone fruits and floral notes.
Food Pairings: This versatile wine pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Its crisp acidity and floral notes make it an excellent match for seafood, such as ceviche, grilled shrimp, and sushi. The light body and fruity flavors complement light salads, fresh goat cheese, and dishes with citrus-based sauces. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with spicy Asian cuisine, where the wine's freshness can balance the heat and complexity of the flavors. Additionally, it is a delightful aperitif to enjoy on its own or with light appetizers.
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Los Abandonados Corte Negro - Mixed Vintage
PP2-R - CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 (El Cepillo) 55% CABERNET FRANC 2017 (Los Chacayes) 15% PETIT VERDOT 2018 (Los Chacayes) 15% MERLOT 2017 (Gualtallary) 15% - 14%
Blend Description: Crafted with precision and artistry, this blend brings together the distinct personalities of four noble grape varieties, each contributing to the symphony of flavors. The dominant Cabernet Sauvignon from El Cepillo provides structure and depth, while the Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot from Los Chacayes add complexity and nuanced layers. The Merlot from Gualtallary rounds out the blend, contributing a velvety texture and enhancing the overall harmony. Hand-harvested with meticulous care, the grapes are sourced exclusively from the renowned Uco Valley, where the terroir imparts character and individuality to each varietal. This blend is a true expression of the art of winemaking, capturing the essence of the region's rocky loam soils, high altitudes, and desertic climate.
Tasting Notes: The wine displays a deep and inviting color, reflecting its rich blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot. Aromas of blackberries, cassis, and red plums mingle with subtle notes of tobacco and cedar. The bouquet is complex and layered, showcasing the individual characteristics of each varietal. Experience a full-bodied wine with well-integrated tannins. The palate unfolds with flavors of dark chocolate, ripe cherries, and hints of vanilla from the French oak aging. The blend's structure is complemented by a velvety smoothness, resulting in a wine of elegance and depth.
Food Pairings: This blend is a versatile companion to a range of dishes. Pair it with grilled meats such as ribeye or lamb to complement its robust structure. The wine's velvety texture makes it an excellent match for dishes featuring rich sauces, such as beef bourguignon or a hearty mushroom risotto. For a delightful contrast, try it with aged cheeses, allowing the wine's complexity to shine. The blend's balanced profile and expressive character make it suitable for both casual and more elaborate dining occasions. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, this blend promises a memorable and rewarding tasting experience.
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Los Abandonados Semillon - 2021
PP2-W - La Consulta, San Carlos (Uco Valley) - 100% Semillon - 14%
Winemaking Process: Hand-harvested with utmost care, this Semillon is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship applied throughout its winemaking journey. Sourced from the La Consulta region in San Carlos, Uco Valley, the grapes thrive in sandy loam soil at an elevation of 1100 meters. The arid, desertic climate with minimal rainfall, less than 200 mm per year, imparts a unique character to the fruit.
The winemaking process begins with a departure from conventional crushing methods. Instead, the grapes are fermented as whole clusters, embracing a no-crushing approach to preserve the integrity of the fruit. Native yeasts guide the fermentation in plastic tanks without punching down, allowing for only periodic remontages. The maceration period extends for an impressive 60 days, facilitated by open remontages. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation, with 60% occurring in old barrels and 40% in new French barrels. Aging is a nuanced process, with two barrels undergoing biologic aging and three barrels enriched with a touch of Chardonnay and White Criollas. The wine matures for a total of 8 months before bottling, resulting in a limited production of 1800 bottles.
Tasting Notes: The wine reveals a golden hue, a testament to its Semillon varietal character. Aromatic notes of citrus blossom, honey, and ripe peaches greet the senses, showcasing the varietal's expressive aromatics. The palate is marked by a textural richness, with flavors of tropical fruits, apricots, and a subtle hint of vanilla. The extended maceration period contributes to a structured and well-balanced wine, with a lingering finish that invites another sip.
Food Pairings: This Semillon is a versatile companion to an array of culinary experiences. Its rich texture and expressive character make it an ideal match for creamy dishes, such as a lobster bisque or a truffle-infused risotto. Pair it with grilled seafood, such as scallops or halibut, to complement the wine's vibrant acidity. The nuanced aging process makes it suitable for pairing with semi-hard cheeses or a charcuterie board. Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or paired with a gourmet meal, this Semillon promises a memorable and sophisticated tasting experience.