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The northern reaches of Argentina feature majestic landscapes that carry the legacy of an ancient Incan empire. In honor of those original inhabitants, Bodega Tukma was named after the Incan word for "Chief". Located in the Valle Calchaquies between Salta and Tucuman, both estate vineyards are located at unusually high elevations. Los Tolombones is situated at 5,580 feet above sea level and Los Angastacos at 6,530 feet above sea level. The extreme temperature fluctuations (sometimes as much as 50 degrees from day to evening) results in fruit with concentrated flavors, thick skins and well developed tannins. The wines are produced by long-time winemaker and Torrontes specialist, Jose Luis Mounier. The Calchaquies Valley makes up 331 miles of surface area and is located in the Salta province. The region belongs to the "Prepuna" environment, an expansive semi-desert characterized by the presence of valleys and gorges that are sprinkled with thistle and cactus plants several feet high. One of the most interesting areas is near the population of Cachi, where Los Cardones National Park was recently created. Another element that distinguishes these valleys is the rich animal life that inhabits this region: chinchillas, red fox, cactus hummingbird, mountain parakeet, cuises (species of guinea pig), guanacos (llama guinacoe), trout, black-chested buzzard eagle, and condor. One of its most planted crops is the pimento plant which is laid to dry in large expanses of land within this region. It is later grinded to make paprika. The varietal is a cross between Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica. The grapes were selected from two vineyards with vines up to 39 years old. The soils are 95% sand, forcing the vines to dig deep for their water, as it rains fewer than 8 inches annually. Fermented in stainless steel and aged on its lees for 3 months. The color is a delicate clear yellow with varietal aromas of lychee, grapefruit, tropical fruits and rose petals. The palate surprises with a burst of juicy acidity. Try this with filet of sole. December Limited Series Newsletter (.pdf) |
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