Martín Coscia has the answers to questions about high altitude winemaking!
Have you ever wondered why wine geeks, including yours truly, get so excited when we talk about high altitude vineyards? It isn't just because of their stunning beauty. Grapes grown at high altitudes develop differently and you can taste it in the wine. Don't believe me? Ask Martín Coscia, high elevation vineyards expert and Brand Manager for Hess Family Latin America. Their Bodega Colomé "Altura Máxima" Malbec is produced from grapes grown in the world's highest elevation vineyard at an astounding 10,207 feet above sea level in the Salta region of Argentina.
“The true expression of terroir in this Malbec comes from the extreme altitude as well as soil composition – alluvial, sandy soils with a high percentage of gravel,” said Martín. “With a semiarid-desert climate, grapes receive much more sun, much less UV protection and produce thicker skinned grapes that deliver a robust mouthfeel supported by fresh acidity with surprising finesse.”
Fittingly, Altura Máxima means maximum height in Spanish. The vineyard and wine received this name from entrepreneur Donald Hess who succeeded in his audacious mission to plant the world's highest elevation vineyard. Taste the difference for yourself in the currently available 2015 vintage of Altura Máxima. Sustainably farmed and aged for 24 months, production was limited to 27 barrels. Priced at $135, it is a worthwhile and exciting splurge for Malbec lovers who want to experience a unique and beautifully crafted expression of Argentina's signature vino. Go ahead and take your sipping to new heights!
