Argentina is widely known for Malbec, and Trapiche Winery crafts some excellent bottles. But Trapiche also produces standout Cabernet Sauvignon that represents the flavor of their country at a great price. We recently received samples of three of their Argentinian reds, which impressed us. Moreover, you can find something for everybody in their portfolio, from entry-level wines to world-class single vineyard wines. Read on for details of these Argentinian reds and the Trapiche story.

Trapiche Story

Trapiche is located in Mendoza, Argentina, at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Founded in 1883, Trapiche is one of the oldest wine brands and leading export winery in the country. That is to say, Trapiche creates more than 3.5 million cases of wine annually. The winery exports to more than 80 countries. Likewise, Trapiche owns and operates a number of vineyards comprising about 2,500 acres. In addition, the winery obtains grapes from more than 200 independent producers.

Above all, their winemaking process starts with bio-dynamics, forbidding the use of chemicals, herbicides and fungicides. Further, Trapiche’s goal is a balanced eco-system, biodiversity and the recovery of the bacterial activity in soil.

Consequently, Trapiche notes: “This approach for vineyards assumes that the moon cycles and the planetary positions influence vine growth, similar to their influence on the tides.”

Trapiche Argentinian Reds

Argentina is the world’s largest producer of Malbec. And Trapiche sells more of it worldwide than any other winery. But Trapiche also crafts flavorful Cabernet Sauvignon at wallet-friendly prices. We tasted three impressive Argentinian reds – Broquel Selected Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon 2019, Medalla Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 and Gran Medalla Malbec 2017. Here are our notes.

Trapiche Broquel Selected Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 ($16)

Earlier this month, Forbes named this one of the best wines of autumn. We agree, and we loved it. Broquel is 100% Cab Sauv, selected from the estate’s single vineyards, at over 3,500 feet in elevation. Broquel means shield, and symbolizes the family heritage. This is a rich, structured wine brimming with aromas of raspberries and licorice, and flavors of plums and black currants. We paired it with stew, which was perfect. But it also complements pasta, steak and other grilled meats.

Trapiche Medalla Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 ($20)

Trapiche created Medalla, Argentina’s first premium wine, to celebrate the winery’s 100th anniversary. For example, a small medal is located on the label, which adds a nice touch. This is 100% Cab Sauv, aged in new French oak and “made with a nod to Old World style and sophistication.” Aromas of plum, raisins and oak spices lead into juicy flavors of red and dark fruit and more oak spice notes. Pair it with grilled meat, pasta with red spicy sauces or a variety of cheeses.

Trapiche Gran Medalla Malbec 2017 ($35)

Trapiche crafted Gran Medalla to pay homage to the winery’s 125th anniversary. Similar to Medalla Cab Sauv, a small medal is part of the pretty label. This lush, powerful Malbec is magnificent. Sourced from grapes grown in the best vineyards in Mendoza’s Uco Valley, this Malbec sings. Aromas mirror the flavors of plums, blackberries and cherries, with savory and mineral notes. Malbec is a versatile wine that pairs well with many meat dishes, but can stand alone just as nicely.

Summary: Argentinian Reds

In conclusion, we are delighted to discover beautiful Argentinian reds from Trapiche. It’s one of the oldest brands of wines and the leading exporter of wine in Argentina. Their wines are delightful. Featuring four different tiers, Trapiche offers something for every wine drinker—from entry-level bottles to world-class single-vineyard wines. You can find where to purchase them on their website.

Thank you, Colangelo for sending these samples and introducing us to the world of Trapiche wines.

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Cheers!
Margot and Dave