The Zuccardi Family in Argentina has been making wine since 1963 and they have more than 2,800 acres under vine. They’re committed to sustainable farming practices and making natural wines. Their latest project is the Santa Julia + line. These are budget priced offerings that sell for around $10. Today I’ll look at two wines in this line.
The Santa Julia + 2010 Torrontés was produced using fruit sourced from their sustainably farmed Estate Vineyards in the Mendoza region of Argentina. Grapes were picked over a two week period at the end of March 2010. Temperature controlled fermentation was accomplished with select yeasts. This offering is 100% Torrontés and it has a suggested retail price of $10.
Aromas of white flowers and stone fruit fill the lovely nose of this 2010 Torrontés. The palate is quite fruity and juicy, yet perfectly dry. Apricot and peach flavors play a large role. Hints of mango chip in as well. Almond, hazelnut, vanilla bean and grapefruit characteristics are part of the finish which is crisp and clean with zippy acidity. This wine is a nice value in Torrontés, it’s refreshing and it shows off wonderful varietal character.
The Santa Julia + 2010 Malbec was produced from grapes grown on sustainably farmed Estate Vineyards in three distinct areas of Argentina. This offering is 100% Malbec. Following 20 days of maceration 30% of the wine was aged in French oak for four months. The barrels included were 1st, 2nd and 3rd time used. This wine has a suggested retail price of $10.
The deep, dark purple hue of this wine is striking the moment you pour it into the glass. Aromas of lavender and violets fill the nose along with brooding dark fruits. Plum and blackberry flavors are quite prominent throughout the palate along with both red and black raspberry. Wisps of toasty oak, white pepper as well as bits of dark chocolate are all part of the finish which has more than reasonable length for this category. Fine acidity keeps things in check.
These wines are emblematic of the value coming out of Argentina. These two offerings represent the key white and red varietals they offer. For less than $10 apiece if you shop around these wines are great everyday values that show off pure fruit flavors.