Michelini i Mufatto 'Balsa de Piedra' Semillon, Tupungato, Argentina

Crafted by the visionary Michelini i Mufatto family in the high altitudes of ArgentinaÕs Uco Valley, ÔBalsa de PiedraÕ is a tribute to the tension, elegance, and depth that defines their winemaking style. Situated in the elite terroir of La Cautiva, a subregion in Gualtallary, this Semillon expresses the unique character of the Andes foothills, where calcium carbonate and granite-rich soils enhance the wineÕs mineral complexity. With a commitment to organic practices and minimal intervention, Michelini i Mufatto captures the essence of a historic vineyard planted over a century ago, balancing Old World influences with a distinctly Argentine profile.

Product Details:

• Varietal:Ê100% Semillon
• Vintage:Ê2021
• Region:ÊEl Peral, Tupungato, Uco Valley, Argentina
• Vineyard:ÊFinca Manoni (1 hectare, planted circa 1900)
• Altitude:Ê3,600 feet
• Farming Practices:ÊSustainable, organic principles
• Soil Type:ÊSandy with rich mineral composition
• Trellis System:ÊVertical Shoot Positioning (VSP)
• Yield:Ê1.8 tons per acre
• Vinification:ÊHand-harvested, with 50% whole cluster; fermented using native yeast in 1,000L French oak foudre
• ƒlevage:ÊAged 18 months in oak with 1.5 years of lees contact for enhanced texture
• Filtration:ÊLight crossflow filtration
• Maceration/Fermentation:Ê7-day skin contact
• Alcohol:Ê13.5%
• Production:Ê250 cases (12-pack)

Sensory Description:ÊThis Semillon reveals a luminous bouquet of ripe apricot, pineapple, orange sherbet, and floral lavender, accented by intriguing hints of yellow wax bean and candied ginger. The palate is an intricate play of lemon balm, caramelized pineapple, and sage, enriched by a savory, wet clay minerality and the soft texture of fine grape skins. With vibrant acidity and a full-bodied mouthfeel, the wine is structured yet airy, concluding with a lingering, salty-mineral finish that reflects its high-altitude terroir.

Winemaker's Background:ÊMichelini i Mufatto, led by Andrea Mufatto and Gerardo Michelini alongside their son Manuel, is renowned for pioneering new expressions of ArgentinaÕs viticulture. Their dedication to small-batch, high-elevation winemaking has set a new standard in the Uco Valley, with wines that emphasize natural balance and terroir-driven elegance. Their innovative approach extends across continents, as the first Argentine family to import boutique wines from Europe, reflecting their commitment to quality and global influences.

Serving Suggestions:ÊÔBalsa de PiedraÕ is ideal for savoring with rich seafood dishes like grilled scallops, creamy risottos, or herb-crusted white fish. Its acidity and complexity also make it an excellent match for roasted root vegetables and aged goat cheese. Serve slightly chilled to appreciate its full range of aromas and textures. With its age-worthy structure, this Semillon can be enjoyed now or cellared through 2030.