Bodega Vista del Sur 'High Note' Red Blend, Uco Valley, Argentina

The 2023 Bodega Vista del Sur High Note Red Blend captures the expressive character of Argentina's Uco Valley, where vineyards rise along the eastern foothills of the Andes and dramatic differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures help shape wines of concentration and freshness. Crafted from 50% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah, and 10% Bonarda, this carefully assembled blend brings together the generous dark fruit of Malbec, the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon, the aromatic spice of Syrah, and the supple fruit character of Bonarda. Grapes are sourced from elevated vineyard sites reaching 3,300 to 5,000 feet above sea level, where intense sunlight, cool evenings, and well-drained sandy-loam soils contribute to ripeness and definition. Fermentation in stainless steel tanks is followed by six to nine months of maturation in French and American oak, building texture and complexity while preserving the wine's fruit-driven personality. The result is a polished, approachable Argentine red that balances ripe fruit, gentle spice, and velvety tannins with the distinctive energy of its mountain origins.

Product Details:

• Grape Varieties: 50% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Syrah, 10% Bonarda
• Winemaker: Leopoldo Kuschnaroff
• Alcohol Content: 13.1% ABV
• Vineyard Elevation: 3,300–5,000 feet above sea level
• Soil Composition: Sandy-loam
• Vine Training: Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
• Vineyard Exposure: Eastern and western
• Harvest Period: March to May
• Vineyard Certifications: SMETA and BSCI certified
• Fermentation: Temperature-managed fermentation in stainless steel tanks
• Fermentation Duration: 7–12 days
• Maceration: Punchdowns and pumpovers, with tronco-conical tanks designed to promote extraction and texture
• Oak Maturation: 6–9 months in 50% French oak and 50% American oak, with 25% new oak
• Bottle Aging: Minimum of 3 months
• pH: 3.50
• Total Acidity: 5.46 g/L
• Residual Sugar: 11.08 g/L
• Dry Extract: 38 g/L
• Total Sulfur Dioxide: 130 mg/L
• Production: Approximately 300,000 bottles

Sensory Description:

Deep ruby in appearance, the 2023 High Note Red Blend opens with generous aromas of ripe plums, blueberries, and dark berries, accompanied by sweet baking spices, chocolate, and subtle mocha nuances. The palate is medium-bodied, rounded, and creamy, revealing layers of crushed blackberry, juicy plum, and dark cherry supported by gentle oak-derived notes of vanilla and warm spice. The combination of ripe fruit and carefully managed extraction gives the wine a smooth, enveloping texture, while its plump, velvety tannins provide sufficient structure without overwhelming the fruit. A measured sense of freshness balances the wine's richness, leading to a soft, inviting finish marked by lingering dark fruit, chocolate, and delicate spice.

Awards & Accolades:

• James Suckling: 90 Points, 2023 Vintage.

Winemaker's Background:

Established in 2008, Vista del Sur is a Mendoza winery associated with the High Note label, a collection of wines inspired by Argentina's vibrant cultural identity and the exceptional viticultural conditions of the Uco Valley. The name High Note reflects the country's musical heritage, particularly the passion and expressive movement of tango, while its distinctive label imagery incorporates symbols of Argentine culture and landscape. The winery draws fruit from five carefully selected vineyard areas: Gualtallary, Vista Flores, La Consulta, Altamira, and Eugenio Bustos, each contributing different dimensions of fruit, fragrance, acidity, and structure. These elevated sites benefit from intense Andean sunlight, cool nights, and an extended growing season, conditions that encourage concentrated flavors while retaining freshness. Head winemaker Leopoldo Kuschnaroff, who joined High Note in 2013, comes from a farming family descended from Ukrainian immigrants to Argentina and completed his winemaking education in 1999 before earning an advanced qualification in viticulture from Cuyo University. His approach emphasizes the distinct microclimates of the Uco Valley, using careful vineyard selection and modern cellar techniques to express the character of each growing site. For High Note Red Blend, controlled fermentation, thoughtful extraction, and maturation in both French and American oak combine to create a wine that reflects the generosity, texture, and lively personality of contemporary Argentine winemaking.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the 2023 High Note Red Blend at approximately 16–18°C (60–64°F) to bring its ripe fruit, spice, and oak-derived complexity into balance. A brief period of aeration after opening can help reveal additional aromatic detail and soften the impression of its youthful tannins. Its supple texture and generous dark-fruit character make it an excellent companion to grilled sirloin steak, slow-roasted beef, lamb tagine, and honey-glazed pork, while its approachable structure also suits barbecued meats, mushroom dishes, and richly seasoned vegetable preparations. Particularly enjoyable for relaxed gatherings and hearty meals, this red blend is well suited to drinking now, when its fruit remains expressive and its tannins are soft and inviting.