# Sobre Suelos Calcáreos Cabernet Franc (2021)

- **Producer:** Matias Riccitelli
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €35
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, cherry, plum, blackcurrant, herbaceous, mint, bell pepper, graphite, wild herbs, cedar, smoke, tobacco, leather

## About this wine

Matias Riccitelli is one of Argentina's most dynamic and forward-thinking winemakers. Located in the high-altitude sub-region of Gualtallary in the Uco Valley, Mendoza, this wine is sourced from vineyards planted on extreme, calcium carbonate-rich (limestone) soils at over 1,400 meters above sea level. The 'Sobre Suelos Calcáreos' (meaning 'On Calcareous Soils') range is dedicated to showcasing the profound influence of limestone on the structure and mineral character of the grapes. The 2021 vintage benefited from a cooler growing season, allowing the Cabernet Franc to develop slowly, preserving its vibrant acidity and capturing the wild, herbal essence of the high-altitude Andean terroir.

## Interesting facts

- Grown at an extreme altitude of over 1,400 meters in Gualtallary, where intense sunlight and cool nights concentrate flavors.
- The name 'Sobre Suelos Calcáreos' highlights the vineyard's limestone-rich soils, which impart a distinct chalky texture to the tannins.
- Fermented with 100% whole clusters in concrete vats, a technique that enhances the wine's herbal complexity and freshness.

## Food pairing

This high-altitude Cabernet Franc pairs exceptionally well with roasted and grilled meats due to its vibrant acidity and chalky tannin structure, which cut through rich fats. The wine's herbal and graphite notes beautifully complement dishes seasoned with rosemary, thyme, or sage, while its medium body doesn't overwhelm lighter game or earthy mushroom dishes.

## Wine making process

The grapes are harvested manually in small cases. Fermentation takes place in small concrete vats with 100% whole bunches, utilizing native yeasts to preserve the purity of the fruit and terroir expression. The extraction is gentle, focusing on infusion rather than heavy pumping over. The wine is then aged in used French oak barrels and concrete vats for 12 months to refine the chalky tannins without masking the mineral and herbal character of the Cabernet Franc.