Wines Valle de Uco Salentein - Killka - 2024

Salentein’s Killka Cuvée Rouge 2024 hails from the celebrated Valle de Uco, nestled within Argentina’s premier wine region, Mendoza. This red blend typically brings together classic Bordeaux varietals such as Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and occasionally Petit Verdot, resulting in a wine that is both expressive and well-balanced. The 2024 vintage reveals an enticingly youthful profile, with ripe black fruits, plum, and hints of violet and spice, all underscored by gentle oak ageing that imparts subtle vanilla and toast notes. The vines thrive between 1,000 and 1,500 metres above sea level, benefiting from cool nights that preserve acidity and confer beautiful freshness and aromatic precision. Vinification at Salentein combines modern techniques with respect for tradition; the wine undergoes careful fermentation and a moderate period in French oak to enhance structure and complexity while maintaining the typicity of the fruit.

The Valle de Uco stands out within Mendoza’s diverse landscape, thanks to its high-altitude vineyards, stony alluvial soils, and proximity to the Andes. This environment creates significant diurnal variation: warm, sunny days lead to concentrated ripeness, while cool nights help to retain vibrancy and balance. The region’s history of viticulture stretches back over a century, but in recent decades it has garnered global acclaim for producing some of Argentina’s most refined and elegant wines, especially blends that artfully combine local terroir with international grape varieties.

For food pairings, the vibrant, fruit-forward nature and rounded tannins of this blend make it particularly versatile. It shines alongside traditional Argentine dishes like grilled beef empanadas, asado (barbecue), and spiced choripán sausage. It also harmonises beautifully with rosemary-roasted lamb, wild mushroom risotto, or savoury aubergine dishes. For a local touch, serve it with provoleta, the grilled cheese starter so loved in Mendoza.

For optimal enjoyment, decant the wine for 30 minutes before serving to unlock its aromatic depth. Serve at 16-18°C to fully appreciate its freshness, supple texture, and the interplay of fruit and spice. This youthful vintage is approachable now but may benefit from another year or two in the cellar.