# Pie de Monte Finca Ruano Malbec (2022)

- **Producer:** Durigutti Family Winemakers
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Malbec
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €25
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** plum, blackberry, cherry, violet, black pepper, vanilla, cedar, smoke, leather, tobacco

## About this wine

Pie de Monte by Durigutti Family Winemakers is a terroir-focused project created by brothers Héctor and Pablo Durigutti. This specific bottling comes from Finca Ruano, located in the traditional, high-altitude sub-region of Luján de Cuyo in Mendoza, Argentina. The project aims to showcase the diverse soil profiles and microclimates found at the foot of the Andes Mountains (hence 'Pie de Monte'). By focusing on single-vineyard expressions, the Durigutti brothers highlight the historical heritage of old-vine Malbec in Mendoza, delivering a wine that reflects the unique geological footprint of Finca Ruano's clay and stony soils.

## Interesting facts

- The name 'Pie de Monte' translates to 'foothills', referring to the vineyards situated at the base of the Andes Mountains.
- Durigutti brothers Héctor and Pablo are renowned pioneers in reviving traditional concrete egg fermentation in Argentina.
- Finca Ruano features ancient soils rich in clay and surface stones, contributing to the wine's distinct structural elegance.

## Food pairing

This robust Malbec pairs beautifully with rich, protein-heavy dishes. The wine's moderate tannins cut through the fat of grilled meats, while its dark fruit profile complements savory, charred flavors. Earthy components like mushrooms or rosemary enhance the wine's subtle herbal undertones.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for Pie de Monte Finca Ruano focuses on minimal intervention to preserve the purity of the terroir. Grapes are hand-harvested and undergo a meticulous selection process. Fermentation takes place in concrete vats using native yeasts to enhance regional character. The wine is aged in concrete eggs and neutral oak foudres rather than new barriques, avoiding heavy oak influence and allowing the vibrant fruit and mineral nuances of the Luján de Cuyo terroir to remain at the forefront.