Santa Celina Malbec

One of Uco Valley’s most desirable subregions, Los Chacayes is located in the 
centre of the Tunuyán region. An IG since 2017, it has only around 1,000 hectares 
of its alluvial soil under vine. Vineyards are planted at 1,100 - 1,500 m.a.s.l and 
experience day/night temperature variations of 10-15°C supporting development 
of aromatic compounds and phenolic maturation for good colour and tannin. 
Malbec here tends to show bright red fruit aromas and a robust tannic backbone. 
Mediterranean red varietals also perform well.
Producer
A pioneer in the Uco Valley, Bodega Piedra Negra was established in 1996. 
François Lurton was the first person to plant vines in the foothills of the Andes 
Cordillera (at an altitude of 1,100 m.a.sl.) in semi-desert conditions in the middle 
of what would become the Geographical Indication of Los Chacayes. The poor, 
gravelly, alluvial soil reminded him of Pessac-Léognan in Bordeaux! Drawing on 
expertise acquired all over the world, he immediately introduced environmentally 
friendly growing methods. His 99 hectares of vines are managed organically 
and in adherence to biodynamic principles. In addition to Argentine selections 
of Malbec, the estate also grows French selections of the grape (known as Cot). 
In white grapes they offer a rare source of wines produced from Pinot Gris.
Viticulture
The estate is situated in the foothills of the Andes, at an altitude of 1,100m, 
on well-drained and infertile pebbly soils, mixed with volcanic moraines. It a 
continental semi-desert environment characterised by light frosts and high 
levels of sunshine. Average annual rainfall is 200mm, essentially concentrated 
in summer. It experiences a wide night/day temperature range (10°C at night - 
40°C during the day in summer).
Vinification
After a cold maceration of 5 days at 10°C, the fermentation starts with indigenous 
yeasts, taking about 7 days. After 20 days of maceration with skins the wine is 
separated from them and pressed. It is then aged in a concrete tank for 6-8 
months on the fine lees.
Tasting Note
Violet inflected dark-berried fruits dominate, with slight touches of black pepper. 
Concentrated on the palate with notable depth of fruit giving volume. It is well 
structured, and the tannins are soft and harmonious. Long finish with notes of coffee.
Food Matching
Grilled red meats, carpaccio, paëlla, Iberico ham, red pepper stuffed with cheese