Wines Valle de Uco Domaine Bousquet - Gaia - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Domaine Bousquet's Cuvée Gaia 2021 originates from the renowned Valle de Uco in Mendoza, Argentina, an area celebrated for its altitude-driven freshness and expressive wines. This red blend – though the exact varietal mix is not specified, Gaia typically comprises predominantly Malbec, with contributions from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon – marries vibrant fruit with a notable structure. The organic farming methods practised by Domaine Bousquet ensure purity of expression, with minimal intervention from vineyard to bottle. The 2021 vintage benefitted from balanced ripening conditions, leading to wines with concentrated fruit, measured alcohol, and refined tannins. Vinification is marked by careful extraction and controlled oak ageing, resulting in a cuvée that balances ripe, dark berry notes – think blackberry and plum – with hints of spice, violets, and a subtle smokiness.

The Uco Valley is part of Mendoza’s premium winegrowing belt, sitting at altitudes ranging from 900 to nearly 1,500 metres above sea level. The combination of intense sunlight, cool night-time temperatures, and poor, rocky alluvial soils drives both ripeness and freshness in the resulting wines, while limiting vine vigour to concentrate flavours. Over the past three decades, the region has built an international reputation, drawing on a mix of old-world expertise and new-world innovation, and Domaine Bousquet in particular has helped showcase the area’s organic credentials.

For food pairings, this robust yet polished red will perform beautifully alongside grilled Argentine beef, such as a classic asado, but also with lamb cutlets, slow-cooked short ribs, or hearty vegetarian dishes featuring roasted aubergine or mushroom ragout. Regional empanadas de carne or a selection of aged Patagonian cheeses can also highlight the wine’s spicier nuances.

Serve this Cuvée Gaia at 16-18°C to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and supple mouthfeel. Decanting for half an hour will further reveal its layered character, enhancing both fruit and spice dimensions for a refined tasting experience.