Eternauts, deep emotional connections with wines that span generations

Eternauts, deep emotional connections with wines that span generations

They say that every generation needs its hero or at least a good excuse to reconnect with generational myths. While The Eternaut is rising up the global most-watched lists at Netflix – on a scale with Stranger Things – something similar is happening in the universe of Argentine wine. 

The history and rituals brought back by The Eternaut

The generation now attracted by natural wine fairs is also increasingly beginning to opt for labels that were once a fundamental part of the lives of their parents and even grandparents. 

It’s as though this Malbec from Luján or that oak-aged Cabernet were always out there waiting to remind us of family Sundays; not so much out of nostalgia but with renewed meaning and as a statement of identity.    

Argentina might be part of wine’s New World, but those of us lucky enough to grow up with our grandparents, who remember the ritual of ceremoniously placing the soda bottle on the table, know that here the traditions are much more Old World. Like a comic book passed from hand to hand, wines are passed from glass to glass.  

The Eternaut is a journey through time and collective memory, and some wines are too. Here we look back at the wines Argentinians have enjoyed over the decades and are now sharing with the rest of the world. 

The history and rituals brought back by The Eternaut.

The old stuff works best, Juan!

In a world always chasing after the latest new thing, some Argentine wines have stood the test of time. They were uncorked by our grandparents, then our parents and now, perhaps with a new look and style, they’re filling the glasses of those only just discovering the joys of blends and varietals. The bottom line? These are wines that never left us.  

Let’s begin with Bodegas López, founded in 1898. The winery were masters of making wines with an aged flavor long before it became popular. Their Montchenot, aged for a decade in barrels, needs no filters: it is redolent with long conversations at the table and traditions done well. 

Bodega Norton, which was founded in 1895, recently made waves when James Suckling awarded 100 points to a Semillón from 1958. Since then, younger palates have been rediscovering gems like the Norton Reserva or are exploring the contemporary Andean essence of the Altura line.

Some Argentine wines have stood the test of time.

Acting like viticultural archeologists, Luigi Bosca have managed to salvage the oldest bottled Argentine Malbec from 1912, which is now a part of the Arizu family’s collection. However the label that best spans the generations is undoubtedly the Malbec D.O.C., a red with a global following.

Finca Flichman, based in Maipú, combine their customary elegance with modern labels – some of which are even low-alcohol – thanks to oenologist Rogelio Rabino’s vision. Which is their classic for the ages? Caballero de la Cepa Malbec.

In San Rafael, Goyenechea (founded in 1868) are living legends. Their Centenario Cabernet Sauvignon has almost been a rite of initiation for several generations, but it’s also worth looking for their more recent innovations such as Máxima Naranjo or Begoña Rosé.

Although Fabre Montmayou only began in 1993, they’ve become worthy members of the classical club: French elegance with a Mendozan heart. Their Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon is a red of class and heritage. 

Trapiche, who have been active since 1883, gave us wines such as Fond de Cave and Broquel that have weathered fashion trends with great poise. Today, they have a new look but maintain their classical essence. The Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are essential wines.

There are also the charming wines made by Tittarelli, which were always a feature of family barbecues and probably the first stolen sips at a tender age. 

And what can we say about La Rural (founded in 1885 by Felipe Rutini) and those unforgettable bottles of San Felipe? Today they bring us back the flavors of a specific period and grace the tables of the best neighborhood restaurants.  

In the world of Argentine wine, tradition is federal  

But in our overview of labels that transcend generations, we also need to look beyond Mendoza.

In San Juan, Graffigna – founded in 1870 – are still an icon. Today, their lines Genuine Collection and Glorious Selection are taking a local legacy overseas.

In the world of Argentine wine, tradition is federal.

In the northwest, where vines grow among giant cacti, wineries such as Etchart and Domingo Hermanos are delivering their spicy reds and fragrant Torrontés to the tables of millions of wine lovers, staying true to their belief in the value of identity and authenticity.  

Patagonia also has its viticultural con: Humberto Canale. Founded in 1909, the winery were pioneers in the region and a favorite of those looking for stylish Malbec, Pinot Noir and Semillón. Their Marcus and Estate lines are classics of the fresher, more geographically exotic regions of Argentina.  

And so, just as The Eternaut is reminding us of the power of rebellion, these wines remind us of wine’s greatest power; it reconnects us with who we were, who we are and who we still might be. 
If you’re interested in learning more, you can read about how Malbec has developed here.

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