Copper Cane
Araciel
Valle de Uco Malbec
Mendoza, Argentina
BOLD WINE STYLE
Deep garnet in color with abundant aromas of dried plum, black berry, and leather, followed by hints of thyme, sweet anise and black pepper. The palate is rich and complex with flavors of ripe dark fruits, chocolate cherry, thyme, and blackberry pie. This wine has a lingering fruit-forward finish with firm acidity and subtle tannins.
Varietal: Malbec
Food Pairing: Enjoy with a grilled steak with sautéed mushrooms, a spicy Cioppino, or a hamburger with blue cheese
THE VINEYARDS:
This Malbec is cultivated at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feat near Alto Agrelo, in Argentina’s Valle de Uco region in Mendoza. The southern part of the valley is slightly cooler than the north, with dry conditions and abundant sunshine. Combined with gravelly loam and alluvial soils, this creates an ideal environment for growing this typically tannic and intense varietal. What sets this region apart is the enhanced physiological maturity of the Malbec grapes, which softens the tannins while leaving a rich array of phenolics. The result is a wine with a massive mouthfeel, an intensely dark color, and a perfect balance of natural acidity.
WINEMAKER NOTES:
“Our journey through the Mendoza region began in 2010, when we discovered the perfect site for Malbec on the western edge of the Uco Valley, near Alto Agrelo. After successful initial trials, we committed to local production. The area’s long, dry growing season allows for extended hang-time, leading to high physiological maturity and transforming Malbec’s typically harsh tannins into a rich, soft structure. Using cryo-extraction, we enhance color and phenolic concentration. Parting ways from tradition, we saw a way to bring more character and balance to this wine using the Solera method for aging. Our solera system contains Malbecs of different ages/vintages, going back to 2015. By blending the younger wines into “la madre” (the mother-blend), we are able to craft an all-encompassing style with consistent character and quality. This process continues vintage over vintage, with a hearty percentage of the previous blend held back every year to be added to with the new vintage and continuing on its aging cycle. Controlled fermentation, extended maceration, and aging in French and American oak barrels add depth and layers of vanilla, spice, and softness. The result is a balanced, rich textured wine with exceptional depth.” – Araciel Winemakers
ABOUT THE WINERY:
Araciel Malbec from Copper Cane is the newest creation by the renowned winemaker Joseph Wagner, the visionary behind Belle Glos wines. The winery bridges two continents, crafting Albariño and Malbec wines from vineyards in California’s Santa Maria Valley and Argentina’s Valle de Uco. The name “Araciel,” meaning “Altar in the Sky,” reflects both the distance and the harmony between these two remarkable regions. Focused on hillside sites in the San Rafael Mountains and the eastern foothills of the Andes, Araciel sources fruit from cool-climate deserts where abundant sunshine, temperate conditions, and alluvial soils create the perfect environment for these varietals. The extended growing season allows Albariño to preserve its bright acidity and mineral character, while Malbec develops rich fruit, depth, and velvety tannins. Though grown at opposite ends of the globe, both wines share a balanced, fruit-forward elegance that unites them under the Araciel name.
Information & Photos © Araciel – All Rights Reserved
Peju
Legacy Collection
2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley, California
BOLD WINE STYLE
The Legacy Cabernet Sauvignon presents an expressive nose that captivates the senses from the first moment. On the palate, it reveals intricate layers of dried red fruit and nuanced cigar box notes. A delicate hint of wet stone adds a distinctive touch to the experience. The wine’s medium to full body strikes a harmonious balance between fruit and tannin structure. The finish is elegant and prolonged, with a touch of cocoa dust that lingers on the palate.
Varietal: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, 6% Merlot
Analysis: 14.5% alcohol / volume
Appellation: Napa Valley, California
Oak: French & American oak, 40% new
Aging: 19 months
Harvest: October 2022
Winemaker: Sara Fowler
Critical Acclaim: 94 points, Decanter
VINEYARDS:
At Peju, they believe great wines are made in the vineyard and are committed to farming sustainably and naturally to preserve these properties for the long term. They are certified Napa Green at their Rutherford winery and vineyard. In 2019 all six of their estate vineyards were certified Fish Friendly Farming, as part of their ongoing commitment to sustainability.
VINTAGE:
In 2022 growers faced triple digit heat over five days in September quickly followed by rain that brought harvest to a sudden halt. Winemakers are calling the vintage “the tale of two harvests,” making it one of the more unique vintages in recent history. The typical gap between the white and red wine harvest was almost nonexistent. Winemakers describe 2022 Napa Valley red wines as having excellent structure with deep red color, opulent tannins and fruit-forward aromatics.
ABOUT THE WINERY:
In 1983, Tony and Herta (HB) Peju purchased thirty acres of vines in the famed Rutherford district of Napa Valley. They worked hard to build a winery, plant estate vineyards and raise their family. PEJU remains family-owned with Tony and HB’s two daughters, Ariana and Lisa, guiding the business today. Ariana and Lisa are bringing fresh ideas while maintaining the meticulous focus on quality that began 40 years ago. With its landmark tower and warm hospitality, PEJU Winery is an integral part of the Napa Valley landscape. Learn more here.
Information & Photos © Peju – All Rights Reserved
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Kosta Browne
WineStyles Tasting Station 