Wines The Calchaquí Valleys Bodega Yacochuya - Yacochuya - 2018

Bodega Yacochuya’s 2018 Cuvée Yacochuya is a red wine that beautifully showcases the distinctive character of Argentina’s Salta region, with the vineyards located in the renowned Calchaquí Valleys. While the precise grape composition of this cuvée is not specified, wines from this estate are often noted for their bold, expressive styles, typically drawing upon robust local varieties such as Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, though the exact blend may vary. The 2018 vintage comes from a year with generally favourable weather, allowing for ripe and concentrated fruit. Winemaking at Yacochuya tends to emphasise richness, complexity, and the age-worthiness of their reds, with careful handling in both vineyard and cellar to maximise the intensity of the fruit and the structure of the wine.

The Calchaquí Valleys in Salta are among the highest-altitude winemaking regions in the world, with vineyards often set at elevations above 2,000 metres. This unique setting brings intense sunlight, large diurnal temperature variations, and notably arid conditions, all of which contribute to the concentration and vivacity found in local wines. The soils here are typically sandy and stony, aiding in drainage and encouraging deep root growth, further contributing to the complexity and minerality sometimes detectable in the finished wine. Salta has a rich winemaking history, and the extreme conditions frequently result in wines of great distinction—powerful, deeply coloured, and with vivid aromatics.

Given the likely structure and depth of Cuvée Yacochuya, this wine would pair beautifully with rich, flavourful dishes. Local Argentine specialities such as asado (grilled meats), empanadas salteñas, or slow-cooked beef brisket would harmonise with the wine’s intensity, while strong cheeses or hearty stews would also make for satisfying accompaniments. Internationally, consider pairing with lamb shank, venison, or dishes incorporating grilled vegetables and smoky spices.

For optimum enjoyment, serve this red at 16-18°C. Decanting for an hour beforehand will allow the wine to open up, revealing its full aromatic palette and silky textures.