Argentina may be known as Malbec country, but its producers are redefining the viticultural landscape, discovering what sites work best for a variety of wine grape varietals. Trapiche Winery has been making wine here for 140 years, but it is not standing still in time. Constantly innovating their approach, already meticulous wine growing and winemaking techniques are refined to optimize their vineyard resources and coax the very best from the grapes. Their Broquel varietal wines reflect this commitment to quality wine production.
Sergio Case, a fourth generation winemaker, is blending his experience and passion into internationally recognized Argentinean wines for Trapiche Winery. Over a dozen labels flesh out the portfolio, from which Broquel shines brightly. Five different varietal Broquel wines are made, each from carefully selected estate vineyards that range over 3,500 feet in elevation. These vineyards are some of the best in Mendoza, a special place where the grapes benefit from the intense sun and cooler climate at higher elevations. The clusters hang longer on the vine, and time works its magic, with more intense fruit aromas and flavors in the vivid fruit. Higher acidity from the cool nights balances the wines, giving them freshness and greater aging potential.
Broquel translates to “shield”, and alludes to the legacy that Trapiche embodies. Over the passage of time, Trapiche has made quality wine, and are rightly proud of their family’s role in bringing many French winemaking techniques and varietals to Argentina, elevating the production of all Argentinean wines. Recognized as “Argentina’s most awarded winery”, Trapiche balances hard work and commitment to quality, and are included in The World’s Most Admired Wine Brands list from Drinks International magazine.
I had the opportunity to sample two of the Broquel varietal wines, the 2021 Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Trapiche Broquel Malbec 2021 is beautiful, this 100% Malbec wine really illustrates how the iconic superstar grape is a perfect fit for the Argentine terroir. Produced from 25-year-old high altitude vineyards, ranging from 3000-4000 feet above sea level, the wine displays its own zenith of aromas and flavors. Showing off its signature intense purple red color, this succulent, smooth wine swirls aromas of red and black fruit, such as plums, black currants and raspberries, along with lavender, bittersweet chocolate, graphite and earthy notes, caressed by a touch of smoke. The rich body is balanced with vibrant acidity and supple tannins, and spice highlights the long and persistent finish. Perfect with grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses, I enjoyed drinking this Malbec on its own as well.
The Trapiche Broquel Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a bold expression, intensely concentrated with black and red currant and cherry fruit, aromas of clove, vanilla, lavender, balsamic and graphite dance on this smooth, well-balanced, rich wine. Mineral notes course through the fruity palate, accented by a damp earthiness, and ripe velvety tannins round out a long finish. Perfect with steak, grilled meats, or pizza, this is a very nice Cabernet.
These two wines are excellent value, retailing for under $15, high quality wines that you can afford to drink every night with dinner.