Rara Pinot Noir Review 2021

In the province of Neuquén, in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, the Rara Avis Pinot Noir cuvée reflects the uniqueness of an extreme terroir. Located at an altitude of 300 meters, the ungrafted vines planted in 2001 benefit from sandy clay soils, combined with a semi-arid continental climate marked by constant cold winds and a high temperature range. These natural conditions favor the slow maturation of the grapes, guaranteeing freshness, aromatic intensity and finesse, characteristics that make Patagonia one of the most promising regions for Pinot Noir in Argentina.

The vinification of this vintage begins with a manual harvest in search of the highest quality. Alcoholic fermentation lasts approximately 15 days in stainless steel vats, using selected yeasts. A proportion of whole bunches of 50% allows the fruity aromas to intensify. Once fermentation is complete, the wine continues to age for 6 months in stainless steel vats , favoring purity and expression of the fruit, before being clarified and bottled.

This wine reveals notes of wild strawberry , redcurrant, red cherry , pomegranate, undergrowth, cedar, spices and rose petal . On the palate, the body is fluid and elegant, carried by a good acidity and tannins that are not too present, which structure without weighing it down. The finish is fresh and elegant.

Although Argentina is considered the "New World," its winemaking tradition is much older than one might think, dating back to the time of Spanish colonization in the 16th century and later to Italian settlers. Unlike Chile, wine has long been a part of the country's culture.