Doña Paula explores Argentine blends

Doña Paula has introduced a Cabernet Franc-based blend as its new winemaker steps up his quest for complexity and terroir expression.

Marcos Fernández of Doña Paula shows off the new blend at the Mercado Andino trade tasting in London

Called “1350” in reference to the altitude of its Alluvia vineyard in Gualtallary, Uco Valley, the wine comprises a blend of 50% Cabernet Franc, 45% Malbec and 5% Casavecchia – a rare southern Italian grape that adds dark colour and tannin.

Together with another new wine, “1100”, which has been made exclusively for the UK’s Gaucho restaurant chain, the new blend carries an RRP of £16.49 and launches with the 2013 vintage.

‘’Blends are becoming a big thing for Argentina,” said Marcos Fernández, who joined the Mendoza producer as chief winemaker just over a year ago.

Positioning this blended focus as part of a wider pursuit of enhanced terroir expression by many Argentine producers, Fernández commented: “Sometimes with a single variety in a specific spot you have all you need for a wine, but sometimes you need more varieties for full complexity.”

Fernández, who has previously worked for producers including Paul Hobbs, Chandon and Bodega Norton, outlined his belief in the four key elements behind a good blend.

“It’s not just about putting three or four wines together,” he told the drinks business. “It’s also a beautiful blend of science – chemistry and biology – art, because each wine is unique like when you paint with different colours, then hard work in the detail, and passion.”