2023 Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco

the zuccardi family and finca canal uco

Zuccardi Valle de Uco is a family business internationally known 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: this was the first vineyard the family planted in the Uco Valley. The plot is located in Paraje Altamira, at an altitude of 1,100 meters, and was irrigated for decades by the Canal Uco, the first irrigation canal to draw water from the Tunuyán River. Here began Zuccardi's journey of discovery into the identity of Altamira, a terroir that is recognized worldwide today 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 pronounced minerality and tension. Poplars characterize the landscape among the vineyards, with the imposing Andes in the background. It is a place where the natural environment and viticulture come together in harmony, and where Malbec finds its purest expression.

the harvest year 2022

The 2022 harvest is remembered as cool and well-balanced, but also as one of the most challenging years of the past decade. Thanks to patience and precision in the vineyard, the grapes were able to ripen optimally. The result is a wine with striking freshness and texture, in which red fruits and a lively, expressive style take center stage. This vintage demonstrates once again why Paraje Altamira belongs among the most prized terroirs in South America.

vinification and style

The grapes were harvested by hand and rigorously selected. After gentle pressing, the must was transferred by gravity to concrete vats, where fermentation took place with indigenous yeasts. The wine was aged entirely in concrete tanks, without wood, ensuring the purity and tension of Malbec are preserved to the maximum. The style is concentrated, yet simultaneously refined and lively.

color, smell and taste

The 2022 Finca Canal Uco opens with a deep bouquet of black and blue fruits, violets, and a mineral touch of broken stones. With some time in the glass, floral and spicy nuances emerge, giving the wine extra energy. On the palate, it is full and intense, yet remarkably elegant and lively. 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 the Piedra Infinita, yet always remaining true to the finesse of the region.

ratings and aging potential

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

Order Zuccardi wines online?

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read the full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others.

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wine food pairings

• Grilled ribeye steak – the robust texture and dark fruit notes pair perfectly with the rich flavors of grilled beef.
• Venison stew with rosemary – the earthy and spicy notes of 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 savory dish.
• Risotto with mushrooms and Parmesan – the creamy texture of the risotto complements the refined concentration of the wine.
• Oven-roasted leg of lamb with garlic and thyme – the spicy character harmonizes with the floral and fruity accents.
• Matured hard cheeses such as aged Manchego or Comté – the briny, nutty notes pair with the long, mineral finish.