Aruma
The vintage
Winter went by with regular temperatures, but sprouting occurred a few days earlier than usual (October 5th in the case of Malbec). Furthermore, flowering, fruit set and veraison occurred during the expected dates. Fortunately, good weather predominated throughout the season with little rainfall, specifically during March (16 mm) in relation to the historic average for that month (30 mm). These typical weather conditions (sunny and dry days, and also an important thermal oscillation between night and day), allowed both grapes and tannins to ripen slowly, which helped preserve a remarkable freshness. The harvest started on March 25th and finished on April 22nd.
Location
Nestled at the foothills of the snowcapped Andes mountains, Mendoza is known as the best wine producing region in Argentina. With vines planted on high plateaux between 800 and 1500m above sea level, Mendoza's vineyards are known as the highest in the world.
Terroir
Sheltered from the rain by the mountains to the West and the Pampa to the East, the region is very arid. Mendoza wines draw their character from an exceptionnal sun exposure and wide temperature variatons between night and day.
Aruma means the night in the language of the Quechua. This name expresses the intense darkness of the Andean nights and the depth of colour that characterises the robe of the Malbec.
Winemaking
Grapes are harvested by hand, carefully selected, destemmed and crushed before being placed in stainless steel tanks for fermentation. A traditional winemaking process ensues with pump-over and delestage. Total maceration time lasts from 12 to 15 days.
Aruma is aged in tanks in order to preserve its fruit-driven style and allow the varietal characteristic of the Malbec to come through.
Grapes
Tasting
Deep reddish color. The nose shows a great aromatic intensity where we find white flowers, red fruits and cherries. On the palate the wine is fresh, fruity, and it also expresses a pleasant balance between acidity, tannins and softness. The finish is long and delicate.