François Lurton : Chacayes 2014

François Lurton releases a great complex and balanced Argentinian wine

The estate

Representing the fifth generation of a family of winegrowers which has produced wine since 1897, François Lurton is the adventurous owner of estates in France and in Argentina, Chile and Spain.

The vineyard

Chacayes 2014 is a Valle de Uco wine from a vineyard located in the foothills of the Andes in the Mendoza region at an altitude of 1100 metres. The vines are an average of 20 years old and are planted on alluvial soils of volcanic and granite gravel. These poor, filtering soils, combined with the altitude and dry climate, create a unique and singular terroir.

The vintage

High temperatures in December allowed the vines to develop early. However, this advance was counterbalanced at the end of February by cold, dry weather. The cooler weather in March allowed the ripening of the Malbec and Cabernet grapes, harvested in April, to become more elegant and supple.

Winemaking and ageing

After the manual harvest in early April, the grapes were carefully destemmed by hand. The Malbec and Cabernet were fermented in 225 litre French oak barrels with a rotation system. Post-fermentation maceration for one month in the barrel. Malolactic fermentation with weekly punching down. The fermentation of the Cot started in concrete tanks and then in new French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation. The wine was aged for 24 months.

Blend

Malbec (50%)
Cot (40%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (10%)

Characteristics and tasting tips for Chacayes 2014 from François Lurton

Tasting

Colour
The colour is of a beautiful garnet red.

Nose
The nose reveals intense notes of red fruit mingled with chocolate and coffee scents.

Palate
Complex and generous, the palate entices with its well-balanced tannins, its red fruit and flower scents and its lasting finish, aromatic with coffee notes.

Storage

Le Chacayes 2014 from François Lurton can be laid down till about 2024.

To serve

For the best tasting, serve at 18°C.

Food and wine pairing

This red wine pairs perfectly with grilled herb pork chops, duck breast in blackcurrant sauce or roasted red meats and hard cheeses.