This Reserve Malbec has an intense deep red colour with violet hues and complex aromas and flavours of fresh plums and cherries with hints of violet. The high altitude of Gualtallary, means that the grapes can ripen slowly to gain more concentrated flavours but still retain some elegant acidity.
After 12 months in French oak, the palate is further complimented by sweet hints of spices, cocoa and vanilla. The oak also softens the palate to create smooth velvety tannins and a lingering finish. A wine of great concentration and wonderful complexity.
The Pioneer estate winery is based in Gualtallary one of the highest districts in the Uco Valley, Mendoza at around 1200m above sea level. It was founded by Roberto Luka in 1997, naming it after his partner’s daughter Sophia and his daughter Eugenia. The sheer height means the vineyards experience abundant sun during the day and much cooler nights. This, combined with sandy and stony soils, ensures a long growing season for ripe fruit and a refreshing acidity for expressive and elegant wines that stand out. They are certified sustainable and have now been confirmed organic which will mean wines from 2023 onwards are certified.
Pair this with grilled steak with a peppercorn sauce, spiced beef or Mexican dishes.
91 points awarded by James Suckling and Tim Atkins and 90 points awarded by Robert Parker. 93 points awarded in Decanter South American supplement March 2020. 95 points and Gold Medal awarded in Decanter World Wine Awards 2021.
In 1556 fr Juan Cedrón established the first Argentinian vineyards in Mendoza using cuttings from the Chilean Central Valley. Argentina is now the worlds fifth largest wine producer. The many different grapes reflect the country's immigrant groups: the French brought Malbec, the Italians brought Bonarda and Torrontés is typically Argentinian found in the provinces of La Rioja, San Juan, and Salta.
Malbec is a tale of two worlds - the old and the new. Malbec has become synonomous with Argentinia where the high altitude vineyards produce delicate, floral Malbec.
Yet, as with many things vinous, the grape came from France (where it was known as Côt or Auxxerois). Used in blends, including in Bordeaux, it's best known French expression is in Cahors.
"It all begins at the vineyard," says Julia Halupczok, Winemaker at Finca Sophenia. Their vineyards have the perfect combination of soil, climate, and altitude to make balanced wines with excellent fruitiness, freshness and character. "We do honour to these natural qualities with our sustainable practices at the vineyard and winery, working hard to make wines that improve with every season.”
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