2022 Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco

the zuccardi family and finca canal uco

Zuccardi Valle de Uco is a family-owned winery internationally renowned as one of Argentina's leading winemakers. Under the leadership of Sebastián Zuccardi, the focus is entirely on terroir expression and authenticity. Finca Canal Uco is special: it was the first vineyard the family planted in the Uco Valley. Located in Paraje Altamira, at an altitude of 1,100 meters, the plot was irrigated for decades by the Canal Uco, the first irrigation canal to draw water from the Tunuyán River. This is where Zuccardi's journey to discover the identity of Altamira began, a terroir now recognized worldwide for its unique character.

the terroir of paraje altamira

The vineyards of Finca Canal Uco are situated on alluvial soils with gravel and large stones covered with calcareous material. These conditions ensure excellent drainage and give the wine its distinct minerality and tension. Poplar trees dot the vineyards, dominating the landscape, with the imposing Andes in the background. It is a place where the natural environment and viticulture blend harmoniously, and where Malbec finds its purest expression.

the 2022 harvest year

The 2022 vintage is remembered as cool and well-balanced, but also as one of the most challenging years of the past decade. Patience and precision in the vineyard allowed the grapes to ripen optimally. The result is a wine with remarkable freshness and texture, where red fruit and a lively, expressive style take center stage. This vintage demonstrates once again why Paraje Altamira is among the most prized terroirs in South America.

vinification and style

The grapes were hand-harvested and rigorously selected. After a gentle pressing, the must was gravity-fed into concrete vats, where fermentation took place with indigenous yeasts. The wine was aged entirely in concrete vats, without wood, thus preserving the purity and tension of Malbec. The style is concentrated, yet refined and vibrant.

color, smell and taste

The 2022 Finca Canal Uco opens with a deep bouquet of black and blue fruits, violets, and a mineral note of crushed stones. With time in the glass, floral and spicy nuances emerge, giving the wine added energy. On the palate, it is full and intense, yet remarkably elegant and vibrant. The concentrated core of dark fruit is balanced by a refined freshness and a mineral, layered finish. It is a powerful yet graceful expression of Altamira, showing more depth and power than the lighter style of Piedra Infinita, yet always remaining true to the finesse of the region.

reviews and storage potential

The international press responded enthusiastically. The Wine Advocate awarded this wine 96 points, praising its balance of concentration, elegance, and minerality. The 2022 combines intensity and refinement at a rare level. Its aging potential is excellent: the wine can develop between 2026 and 2036, revealing even more complexity and depth.

Would you like to order Zuccardi wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

wine and food pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak – the powerful texture and dark fruity notes perfectly complement the full flavors of grilled beef.
• Venison stew with rosemary – the earthy and spicy notes of the game are beautifully enhanced by the minerality of the wine.
• Empanadas filled with spicy beef – the juiciness and freshness of the wine bring balance to this hearty dish.
• Mushroom and Parmesan Risotto – the creamy texture of the risotto complements the refined concentration of the wine.
• Oven-baked leg of lamb with garlic and thyme – the spicy character harmonises with the floral and fruity notes.
• Mature hard cheeses such as aged Manchego or Comté – the salty, nutty notes complement the long, mineral finish.