Bodega Salentein Winery

The Val de Uva in the Argentinian province of Mendoza is one of the highest growing regions in the world. Jesuits planted the first vines there at the foot of the Andes in the 17th century. Today, it is Bodega Salentein that utilises the characteristics of this unique landscape to produce internationally renowned top wines. "The goal of Bodegas Salentein is clear: to produce first-rate wines, committed with the earth where they come from."

The bodega was founded in 1995 by Dutchman Meindert Pon. Just eight years later, it was named "Argentinian Winery of the Year" and is still considered a pioneer in the region today. It is located at an altitude of 1,200 metres in the middle of the vineyards. The western horizon is dominated by the snow-covered Andes at over 6,000 metres.

The approximately 800 hectares of planted vineyards are divided into three areas and lie at an altitude of between 1,050 and 1,700 metres. The extreme altitudes bring a high intensity of sunshine with cool night-time temperatures - and therefore the best ripening conditions for a balanced sugar-acid ratio and thick-skinned, tannin-rich berries. The pure meltwater from the mountains ensures a low pH value of the berries and thus a higher acidity, which also contributes to the ageing potential of the wines.

On the predominantly sandy-loamy soils, 80% red and 20% white grape varieties are grown - Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The vines are up to 35 years old.

photos: Bodega Salentein