Bodega Graffigna is one of Argentina’s oldest wineries. Founded by an Italian named Santiago Graffigna, the winery reflects the fusion of two cultures – Italy and Argentina. The wines of Graffigna showcase the cutting-edge spirit of Argentina with the passion, ambition, and heart of Italy. Blessed by the Andes Mountains with a climate built for grape growing, Graffigna wines are made to be enjoyed young and shared with friends. The wines also represent the best of Italy with Graffigna Pinot Grigio and Argentina with the superstar grape of the region – Malbec.
Crafting the wines behind Graffigna is Chief Winemaker Fernando Mengoni. Fernando began his journey with the Viña San Pedro Wine Group in 2008 and his first-ever harvest was in 2006. Fernando was born in Mendoza and comes from a family of wine.
“Argentina is a never-ending universe with regard to wine,” Mengoni says. “My father was a winemaker, so for me, wine has always been present. It’s not something to simply enjoy, it’s something noble that comes from the earth and should be appreciated.” Having led innovative projects, and worked with organic and biodynamic viticulture, Mengoni believes that Argentina has a lot to offer consumers and creators alike and excited about winemaking in the region. “Argentina is a very large country and although it has gained worldwide notoriety thanks to Malbec, it is still a relatively ‘new’ origin in the world of wine,” he shares.
About Argentina’s cutting-edge wines
Argentina is one of the few continental viticultural areas in the world producing wines that are loved by consumers. Its superstar grape Malbec is loved around the world and all of the wines created are made with pure meltwater coming from the Andes Mountains. This flowing water from the mountain range allows the wines to be pure by nature’s own design. Grape vines don’t need a lot of rain to produce complex and delicious wine. Under these conditions, grape vines adapt and produce more complex fruit. The solar radiation due to a thinner atmosphere helps to produce wines that have elegance and finesse and grapes grow thicker skins that contribute flavour, colour, and texture to the wines
A mecca for exciting, award-winning and delicious wines most of the vineyards in Argentina are located in arid areas with dry climates that get plenty of sunshine and grow in a continental climate in fertile soils. With a significant ‘diurnal shift’ (when temperatures shift from high during the day, to cool at night) – wines keep their acidity, which is the backbone of any great premium wine.
About Bodega Graffigna’s cultural roots
Bodega Graffigna is located on the admirable terroir of the Cuyo Region, with vineyards that are 145 years old. Santiago led the railway expansion in Argentina to reach new consumers and The winery became one of the first in Argentina to sell brand wine.
“The world of wine is something that is deeply rooted in our history. Our ancestors came from the old world,” explains Mengoni. Looking to explore and learn more about Italian roots and winemaking Mengoni plans on taking a technical trip to Tuscany and its surrounding wine regions. “I believe it’s important to learn about different terroir, techniques and styles. Italy is part of Graffigna’s origins, so what better destination than this for a future trip.”
Graffigna Pinot Grigio is made with grapes hailing from the Cuyo Region. It is aromatic, floral and fresh and ideal for sipping and aperitif pairings such as a picturesque cheese board with italian inspired cheese and focaccia.
Mengoni on what makes good wine
According to Mengoni, what makes Argentina the source of “cutting edge” wines is the variety of climates and soils. “Malbec has different expressions depending on the region. It ages well and it never ceases to surprise us. The length of time that Malbec can be kept in the cellar will depend greatly on how the wine was at the time of its production and bottling. We do not have much experience with aged wines, but we have had very good results with Malbecs over 20 years old,” he states.
A French grape from Bordeaux that Argentina took and built as its superstar grape, Malbec has pleasant aromas of cherries, strawberries, plums, raisins and black pepper. On the palate, you’ll likely find soft, sweet, silky tannins with a refined, fresh and balanced finish. No two are alike offering a diversity of styles. Graffigna Malbec is made with grapes from the coveted Uco Valley and is a soft and lightly oaked wine. It is ideally paired with herb-marinated lamb chops served lollipop style.
Bodega Graffigna’s philosophy
Crafting wines with a unique sense of place, Mengoni believes that inspiration goes beyond major trends. “Observing and sharing the wines I make with the people I am with on a daily basis helps me to continue innovating and learning,” says Mengonil He mentions that the first and most important lesson he has learned is that wine is a philosophy of life, not only a drink. “My father was a winemaker, so when I am working and making wines, something that inspires me is to think about what he would do in my place.”
A lover of down-to-earth hobbies, Mengoni really likes to work with his hands. He enjoys woodworking and handcrafting furniture, hiking and trekking in the mountains and memorable and magical wine experiences. “My inspiration is that wines can make people fall in love with them; and above all, evoke something at the moment they are drunk,” he expresses.
“As the good Argentinian that I am, if I am not sipping wine, I am most likely drinking maté. Or if I am spending time with friends, a good alternative might be a good fernet with soda. The important thing is to share the moment. I once drank a wine from Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza which was from 1977. And when I turned 30, my father gave me a Port wine from 1981 that we drank together.”
