THE IDEAL ALTITUDE TERRACES SPECIAL VINEYARDS
WINERY
ALTITUDE
WINES
CULTURE
To maximize fruit expression
 
 
 
 
 
 
Terrazas de los Andes has taken advantage of its 45 years of experience in high elevation vineyards to carefully match each varietal with its ideal altitude.
The gradually rising elevation from the city of Mendoza westward to the Andes Mountain Range creates a wide range of microclimates, as temperature generally drops 0.8°C (1.44°F) per 100 meters/328 feet up. Using altitude as a tool allows our winemakers to grow each varietal in a distinct climate. This results in ripe grapes, with the best acid-sugar balance, maximum aromatic expression and velvety tannins.
 
Varietal   Characteristics   The ideal altitude
Syrah With a medium vegetative cycle, the altitude, climate and stony but not very deep soil allow it to grow and become intense and concentrated but well-balanced and elegant at the same time. 800 meters: Warm temperatures and thermal amplitude which does not exceed 13°C result in notes of ripe fruit and fruit preserves with the slight floral, spicy and animal touches which are typical of this variety.
Cabernet Sauvignion   It blooms late and has thick skins and firm tannins. It requires higher temperature to develop its fruity and spicy aromas which are typical of the region.   980 meters: Warmer temperatures and lower thermal amplitude of 13°C  help bring out spicy, cherry and blackberry notes while moderating vegetal tones.
Petit Manseng This variety comes from the south east of France and is certainly new in Argentina. It gives origin to late harvested wines which allow reflecting its excellent qualities. 1000 meters: The ideal climate to express all its aromatic richness. With high thermal amplitude, especially very cool nights, it produces high acidity wines.
Thus, its potential to make late harvest wines which are characterized by their aromas of tropical fruits such as mango, together with floral notes. In the mouth, it is tasty, fruity and fresh.
Malbec   Quite vigorous, with a meaty texture, alluring depth, and balanced acidity. These features are optimized by the Andes mild weather.   1067 meters: Moderate temperature, sunny and dry days, with 14°C ( 57°F) thermal amplitude which result in the world's best Malbecs. Its aromas are outstanding with exquisite violets, spices and berries.
Merlot With a short to medium vegetative cycle, its sprouting, flowering and ripeness occur before most of the other red varieties. The altitude, fresh weather and clayey soil allow an excellent aromatic development. 1150 meters: Cool temperatures and thermal amplitude over 15°C result in notes of ripe raspberries and preserves with slight floral notes of roses. The spicy notes which are typical of the variety also stand out.
Chardonnay   It grows well in the higher Andes areas, where it can keep its natural acidity adding freshness to its delicate fruit palate.   1200 meters: Mountain-cooled climate with high thermal amplitude 16°C ( 61°F) results in intensely aromatic, refreshing Chardonnays.
 
 
FACTS TASTING NOTES CONTACT
Terrazas de los Andes, the ideal altitude for each varietal.