From: Calingasta Valley, San Juan, Argentina
Varietal: Cereza, Criolla Chica, Canela, Moscatel Tinto
Taste: This opens with a bouquet of red berries & cherries and a hint of hibiscus, a delicate, light red wine with extremely gentle tannins. Its soft, round texture is brightened by juicy flavors of wild strawberry, rainier cherry, and raspberries with a hint of hibiscus and sage. Slight hints of pomegranate, bramble, and a mineral undertone add complexity. Champion Wine Cellars, 11/2024
Pairing: For a traditional Argentine touch, pair it with savory beef empanadas or matambre a la pizza, a flavorful flank steak topped with cheese, tomatoes, and herbs that balances the wine’s juicy red berry flavors. Provoleta, the beloved grilled provolone cheese seasoned with oregano and olive oil, enhances the wine’s berry and herbaceous notes. At the same time, a classic choripán sandwich with chimichurri brings out its herbal tones and fresh acidity. Herb-crusted salmon adds richness and a hint of herbal flavor to the wine's juicy profile. For a lighter option, a charcuterie board with soft cheeses and light cured meats, complemented by fresh berries or cherry compote, brings out the wine’s refreshing, fruit-forward nature.
For a cozy, autumn-inspired pairing, try a roast chicken seasoned with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, paired with roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and butternut squash. The warm, savory flavors of the roast chicken bring out the herbaceous undertones, while the sweetness of the root vegetables enhances the wine's juicy red berry notes. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a garnish of fresh pomegranate seeds can add extra brightness, making this dish a perfect companion to the wine’s light body and refreshing acidity.
Provoleta (Grilled Provolone Cheese)
By David Tanis, NYT Cooking
About: Cara Sur Winery, established in 2011, is a collaborative venture between two couples: Sebastián Zuccardi and his wife, winemaker Marcela Manini, alongside agronomist Pancho Burgallo and his wife, Nuria Año Gargiulo. Their shared vision centers on reviving ancestral vines and producing wines from traditional Argentine varietals.
Located in Barreal, within the Calingasta Valley of San Juan, Argentina, the winery is approximately 1,500 meters above sea level. This high-altitude desert oasis is characterized by its unique microclimate, offering hot days and cool nights, ideal for viticulture.
The name "Cara Sur," translating to "South Face," is inspired by the challenging southern approach to Cerro Mercedario, one of Argentina's tallest peaks visible from Barreal. This name reflects the team's adventurous spirit and commitment to overcoming challenges and pursuing exceptional winemaking.
