Classic Tannat

Located in the Serra Gaúcha mountains of southern Brazil, the Vinícola Salton estate cultivates its vines on high-altitude hills in a temperate subtropical climate, characterized by cool nights and significant temperature variations. The predominantly clay-gravel soils promote a slow and even ripening of the Tannat grapes, preserving their color, structure, and freshness. Situated in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, the historical cradle of Brazilian viticulture, the vineyard benefits from moderate winds and well-distributed rainfall, resulting in healthy and concentrated grapes for the Classic range.

The Tannat grapes for Vinicola Salton Classic Tannat are harvested at optimal ripeness, then destemmed and crushed before alcoholic fermentation in stainless steel tanks, with temperature control to preserve varietal aromas and color. Maceration on the skins is carried out to extract tannins and structure, followed by malolactic fermentation to soften the flavor profile. The wine is then aged in stainless steel tanks on its fine lees for several months to retain fruit freshness and ensure good stability before bottling.

This wine reveals notes of ripe black fruit , plum , and blackberry , complemented by delicate floral touches reminiscent of violet, as well as spicy nuances of pepper and licorice. Light toasty and cocoa accents add complexity. On the palate, it is full-bodied, with present but polished tannins, balanced acidity that provides freshness, and a medium to long, harmonious, and flavorful finish.

The Brazilian wine industry originated in the south of the country with the arrival of the first settlers fleeing the islands of Madeira and the Azores in 1532. It was in 1825, after the country's independence, that the Brazilian wine trade developed. Initially, German immigrants, followed by the Portuguese, then the French and Italians, introduced the vineyards. Devastated in the 19th century by diseases exacerbated by the humid influence of the Atlantic Ocean, European grape varieties were replaced by resistant North American varieties. These still cover 80% of the vineyards but are no longer in vogue. For the past decade, a new generation of winemakers, crafting terroir-driven wines, has been bringing a breath of fresh air and creativity. It must be said that the country has a less formal approach to wine, less stringent regulations, and a vast territory to explore, all of which stimulate the imagination of its winemakers. Defining the style of Brazilian wines is difficult because they reflect the country itself: multicultural. The vastness of the territory translates into a wide variety of soils and microclimates, which imbue the wines with their diversity and suggest enormous potential in terms of quality.