# San Pedro de Yacochuya Malbec (2024)

- **Producer:** San Pedro De Yacochuya
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Malbec 85%, Cabernet Sauvignon 15%
- **Region:** Valles Calchaquíes, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **When to drink:** Later

## About this wine

San Pedro de Yacochuya Malbec is produced by San Pedro De Yacochuya in the Cafayate region of Salta, Argentina. The vineyards are located at an extreme altitude of 2,035 meters in the Valles Calchaquíes, one of the highest wine-growing areas globally. This high-altitude terroir, characterized by intense sunlight and significant diurnal temperature shifts, is crucial to the wine's profile. The winery is a partnership between the Etchart family and renowned enologist Michel Rolland, who recognized the unique potential of this region. The 2024 vintage experienced a hot, dry summer with reduced yields due to spring winds, leading to wines expected to have high concentration and aromatic complexity. The wine is made from 85% Malbec and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, with vines over 60 years old.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards are situated over 2,000 meters above sea level.
- A joint venture with famed enologist Michel Rolland.
- The 2024 vintage faced challenging weather, impacting yields.
- Grapes are hand-harvested into small 18kg boxes.

## Food pairing

The wine's robust structure, likely high tannins, and concentration from high-altitude fruit make it ideal for rich, protein-heavy dishes. The tannins will soften and integrate with the fats and proteins in meats, while the wine's intensity can stand up to bold flavors.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for San Pedro de Yacochuya Malbec begins with hand-harvested grapes from old vines. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks over 10 days at 28-30°C, followed by an extended maceration period of four weeks to maximize extraction. Malolactic fermentation occurs in barrels, and the wine is then aged for 12 months in French oak (30% new, 70% second-use). Finally, the wine is bottled unfiltered, preserving its texture and character. The production volume is around 5,000 cases.