Clos de los Siete Red Blend is a masterful creation by renowned winemaker Michel Rolland, crafted in Argentina's prestigious Uco Valley at the foothills of the Andes. This elegant Bordeaux-style blend harmonizes Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc, showcasing a deep purplish-red hue and complex aromas of ripe blackberries, black cherries, and subtle spice. On the palate, it offers a silky, full-bodied experience with notes of juicy plum, dark chocolate, and a hint of minerality, balanced by polished tannins and vibrant acidity. Aged in French oak for added depth, this versatile wine pairs beautifully with rich meats or aged cheeses and boasts excellent cellaring potential, making it a must-try for wine enthusiasts seeking sophistication and value.
Process & Profile
Clos de los Siete is a masterful blend of six grape varieties, with Malbec taking the lead. Each vintage is carefully crafted using hand-harvested grapes grown in high-altitude vineyards at the foot of the Andes. The soil's unique composition of pebbles, clay, and sand ensures excellent drainage, while the region's sunny days and cool nights enhance the development of complex tannins and vibrant colors.
The wine undergoes meticulous vinification, including fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and aging in French oak barrels for up to 11 months. This rigorous process results in a wine that strikes a perfect balance between power and elegance.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Deep garnet with flashes of crimson, showcasing the vibrant hues of Malbec.
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Aromas: Intense notes of ripe plum, blackberry, and dark cherry, accompanied by hints of vanilla, cocoa, and subtle herbal undertones like thyme and bay leaf.
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Palate: Silky and full-bodied with polished tannins. Expect flavors of juicy blackberries, blackcurrants, and plums, complemented by spicy herbs, dark chocolate, and a touch of toasty oak. A lively acidity and a long, refined finish add to its complexity and charm.
What Makes It Special
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Michel Rolland's Expertise: Clos de los Siete is crafted by the world-renowned master blender Michel Rolland, whose expertise ensures balance and harmony in every sip.
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Unique Terroir: The blend comes from a single block vineyard with optimal altitude, well-drained soils, and a dry climate, yielding grapes of unparalleled quality.
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Versatility: Its Bordeaux-inspired blend combines Malbec, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc in varying proportions, making each vintage a unique masterpiece.
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Sustainable Practices: The vineyard employs sustainable viticulture techniques, emphasizing quality and environmental responsibility.
How to Enjoy
Clos de los Siete is a versatile wine perfect for various occasions. Serve it slightly cool at around 62°F to enhance its refreshing acidity and aromas. Pair it with:
- Grilled meats like Argentine asado or lamb chops.
- Rich dishes like beef bourguignon or mushroom risotto.
- Hard cheeses and charcuterie boards.
While it is immediately enjoyable, this wine has excellent cellaring potential, allowing its flavors to develop gracefully over the years.
Clos de los Siete is more than a wine; it's an experience that transports you to the breathtaking landscapes of Mendoza with every sip. Whether you enjoy it now or savor its evolving complexity in the future, this red blend is a true testament to the art of fine winemaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Clos de los Siete Red Blend?
Clos de los Siete is a premium red wine from Argentina's Uco Valley, crafted by renowned winemaker Michel Rolland. It is a blend dominated by Argentina's signature grape, Malbec, and complemented by Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. The blend proportions vary slightly each vintage to best reflect the conditions of the harvest.
What grapes are used in this blend?
The wine typically includes Malbec as its primary grape (around half of the blend), with smaller proportions of Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. Each variety contributes unique characteristics, such as Malbec's bold fruitiness and Syrah's spice.
What does Clos de los Siete taste like?
Clos de los Siete offers a full-bodied yet refined palate. It is known for its deep fruit flavors like blackberry, black plum, and blueberry, along with hints of spice, chocolate, and hazelnut. Its silky tannins and fresh acidity provide balance and complexity.
What makes Clos de los Siete unique?
This wine is the result of a collaborative effort between seven Bordeaux winemaking families and Michel Rolland. The unique terroir of the Uco Valley—high altitude, well-draining soils, and ideal climate—combined with expert blending techniques, makes Clos de los Siete distinctive.
What foods pair well with Clos de los Siete?
Its rich and robust profile pairs beautifully with meaty dishes like an Argentine asado (barbecue), lamb, or hearty stews. It also complements pasta with red sauces, aged cheeses, or a charcuterie board.
What is the alcohol content of Clos de los Siete?
The alcohol content is approximately 14.5%, offering a well-structured yet smooth drinking experience.
Is Clos de los Siete sustainable?
Clos de los Siete reflects modern, sustainable winemaking practices. The vineyard employs techniques like drip irrigation for precise water use and meticulous vineyard management to maintain quality.
How should I serve Clos de los Siete?
This wine is best served at a temperature between 60°F and 65°F (16°C to 18°C). Decanting for about 30-60 minutes before serving can enhance its aromas and flavors.
Can Clos de los Siete be aged?
Yes, Clos de los Siete has excellent aging potential. Stored under proper conditions, the wine can develop further complexity and smoothness over 5 to 10 years.
Who is Michel Rolland, and what is his connection to Clos de los Siete?
Michel Rolland is a world-renowned Bordeaux winemaker famous for his blending expertise. Clos de los Siete is his visionary project, where he and his team blend grapes from seven vineyards to create a signature wine that showcases Argentina's terroir.
How much does Clos de los Siete typically cost?
Prices for Clos de los Siete are reasonable for its quality, generally ranging around $20–$30 per bottle, depending on the retailer and vintage.
Is Clos de los Siete suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. Its complexity, elegance, and high-quality craftsmanship make it an excellent choice for celebrations, gifts, or pairing with gourmet meals.