AS BRAVAS
MALBEC & SEMILLON
VINTAGE 2016 • SIGNATURE WINE • ARGENTINA
"The audacity of the blend: where the strength of Malbec yields to the elegance and freshness of Semillon."
A Revolutionary Approach
As Bravas 2016 is a collector's item for those seeking wines with soul and experimentation. Produced under a philosophy of minimal intervention at the As Bravas winery, this example stands out for its co-fermentation technique. Semillon not only softens the structure of Malbec but also gives it a luminosity and an acidic "nerve" that makes it extremely gastronomic. It is a wine that pays homage to the ancient mixed vineyards of Mendoza, projecting a modern and refined vision.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: As Bravas.
Origin: Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina.
Vintage: 2016.
Aging: 12 to 14 months in second and third-use French oak barrels.
Volume: 750 ml.
Composition: Co-fermentation of Malbec (red) and Semillon (white).
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Bright purplish-red, very vibrant and medium-high intensity.
Nose: Surprising for its freshness. Intense notes of red plums and black cherries intertwine with hints of white flowers (orange blossom) and a subtle citrus note of grapefruit peel, characteristic of the Semillon contribution.
Palate: Gentle and fluid entry. It is a medium-bodied red with very integrated acidity that makes it juicy. The tannins are fine and polished, with a persistent finish and a very elegant mineral aftertaste.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Suggested Moments
Cuisine: Its balanced profile allows for versatile pairings. It is excellent with game birds, lean red meats, traditional Mendoza empanadas (meat cut with a knife), or a beetroot and goat cheese risotto. The presence of Semillon even makes it suitable for accompanying grilled fatty fish like salmon or cod.
Suggested Moments:
- Romantic Dinner: Its floral and distinctive profile invites conversation and wonder.
- Family Meal: A wine that appeals to both experts and casual drinkers due to its fluidity.
- Business: Ideal for a working meal where a high-quality wine with an original story is desired.
- Gift: A perfect gift for those who enjoy discovering unconventional winemaking techniques.
- Barbecue: Accompanies cuts like flank steak or skirt steak, providing freshness to the palate between fatty bites.
- Summer (Evenings): Served slightly cooler (14°C), it is a perfect red to enjoy in warm climates thanks to its acidity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Is it a white or red wine?
It is a red wine. The 5% Semillon (white grape) is used during the Malbec fermentation to enhance its attributes, but the visual and structural result is that of a great red wine.
How was the 2016 harvest in Argentina?
It was an atypical harvest, much cooler and wetter than usual. This resulted in wines with lower alcohol and higher natural acidity, which today translates into extremely elegant and fresh wines.
Should it be decanted?
A short decanting of 20 to 30 minutes is recommended to allow the floral complexity of the Semillon to be released and integrated with the fruit of the Malbec.