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El Esteco: A hidden treasure

A decanter.com promotion.

A decanter.com promotion.

What makes the Calchaquí Valley region so special? Very simple: it is one of the most beautiful and remarkable places in the world located in Salta province of Argentina. But it is not all about its breathtaking landscapes, laced by rivers, mountains and valleys; or about its culture, a blend of the most charming Argentine folklore: the Calchaquí Valleys are a gem in the world of winemaking.

The Calchaquí Valleys region is probably one of those few places in the world that deserves to be admired, more than understood. The very nature of this location awes the visitor: among the lush vegetation of the Yunga forest, the rivers and rocky mountains, there emerges, unexpectedly, a stretch of desert where magic happens. Standing at an ideal altitude of 1,800 meters (5,500 feet) above sea level, with its ever-present sunshine and perfect temperature range, the environment is perfect for the creation of high-end wines.

It is at the heart of this valley where El Esteco stands, with its nearly 1,000 acres of vineyards condensing all the spirit of the region in their fruit. At a hidden, unthought-of location for the production of great, unique wines.

Unique terroir that is exclusive

Desert climate and soils poor in organic matter mold an isolated stretch of desert with unique features that make it ideal to grow the highest vineyards in the world.

At more than 1,600 meters (5,500 feet) above sea level, the surprisingly broad temperature range generates marked contrasts between the warm days and cold nights, allowing for the development of ripe berries that condense all the best that the region has to offer.

El Esteco gems

Don David Reserve – After 12 months in oak, Don David it boasts a well-defined identity with its solid, adventurous, pioneering spirit, its wealth of aromas, wood and sound character. The line includes seven varietals: Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Syrah, Bonarda, Torrontés and Chardonnay.

El Esteco – El Esteco range carries the winery’s name as a tribute to its history and expertise. Its two varietals, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, are designed to offer great finesse and complexity, delivering an authentic wine from the Calchaqui Valley.

El Esteco Chañar Punco – Since its begining, El Esteco has engaged in the adventurous quest to find remote, unique locations for its vines within the Calchaqui Valley. Chañar Punco is the result of one of these successful quests. Chañar Punco is a high altitude field wine crafted to offer concentrated personality and great structure. Only eight barrels are produced of this true “Gran Vino Tinto Argentino”.

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