Description

Recently we received sample bottles of a captivating Cabernet Franc and stunning Malbec produced by the boutique, award winning estate Bodega SuperUco under its “Calcareo” label which is specifically designed to showcase the chalky, limestone-rich (calcareous) terroirs of the Los Chacayes sub-region of the high-altitude Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina.

Established by the Michelini brothers in 2011,  SuperUco  is known for its avant-garde, bio-dynamic and organic practices, and low intervention winemaking.   Their ultimate objective is to allow for the true expression of the Los Chacayes’ terroir.  Here are the noteworthy bullet points!

• The estate’s two-hectare vineyard is planted on each vine’s own root stock at high elevations up to 4,600 feet above sea level in a combination of volcanic and limestone soils.
• Extreme diurnal range of temperatures (daytime highs vs. nighttime lows) encourages ripeness but emphasizes freshness and higher acidity.
• Concentric circle vineyard design provides uniform sun exposure from every angle throughout the day.
• Tight and competitive one meter spacing between vines and rows results in low yields averaging two tons per acre.
• No machinery.  All farming and harvest are performed by hand and animal.
• No synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
• The native Jarilla (hah-REE-yah) bush contributes an aromatic “garrigue” mix of wild thyme, rosemary, damp pine needles, and tea leaves.
• Indigenous yeast and concrete egg/neutral oak barrel fermentations.
• Large neutral oak barrel aging.

2023 SuperUco Calareo Cabernet Franc is refined and restrained.  Unlike the green-olive-herbal aromatics found in Loire Valley Chinon, here the unique Jarilla garrigue plays center stage to compliment the vibrant cherry fruit.  The racy acidity accentuates hints of graphite and a dusty-chalky tannin.  This wine is looking for a well marbled steak!