Achaval-Ferrer
History and Background
Founded in 1998 by a group of Italian and Argentine friends, Achaval-Ferrer set out with a mission to produce world-class wines that truly express the terroir of Mendoza. The founders, including Santiago Achaval and Manuel Ferrer, were driven by a shared passion for wine and a belief in the untapped potential of Argentina's vineyards.
Vineyards and Terroir
Achaval-Ferrer's vineyards are spread across some of the best wine-growing areas in Mendoza. Each vineyard has its unique terroir, contributing to the distinct character of their wines.
Finca Bella Vista: Located in Perdriel and sitting at 980 meters above sea level, this vineyard is known for its old-vine Malbec, producing wines with depth and a pronounced mineral character.
Finca Altamira: Situated in the Uco Valley at 1,070 meters, this vineyard is celebrated for its complex and elegant Malbec wines, reflecting the cool climate and alluvial soils of the region.
Finca Mirador: Located in Medrano at 700 meters, this vineyard's Malbec vines are some of the oldest, producing wines with great concentration and a distinct fruit-forward profile.
Wine Style and Production
Achaval-Ferrer is best known for its single-vineyard Malbecs, which are crafted to express the unique terroir of each vineyard. These wines are characterized by their depth, elegance, and aging potential. In addition to Malbec, the winery also produces blends and varietals like Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The winemaking philosophy at Achaval-Ferrer revolves around minimal intervention, allowing the grapes to express their natural character. Traditional methods, combined with modern technology, ensure that the wines are both authentic and of the highest quality.
Reputation
Achaval-Ferrer has quickly risen to be one of the most respected and awarded wineries in Argentina. Their wines consistently receive high scores from international critics and have helped elevate the global perception of Argentine Malbec. The winery's commitment to terroir-driven wines has set a benchmark for quality in the region.
Final Thoughts
Achaval-Ferrer stands as a testament to the potential of Argentine viticulture. Through a combination of old-vine vineyards, passionate winemaking, and a commitment to expressing terroir, the winery has carved out a reputation for producing some of Mendoza's most compelling and sought-after wines. For those looking to explore the depth and diversity of Argentine wine, Achaval-Ferrer is an essential stop.