From Argentina With Love: Discovering Solo Contigo Wines
“Only with you” is the name of this adventure that blends a Canadian couple’s passion for Argentina and wine.
It’s hard not to fall in love with Argentina’s wine country. Imagine sipping a glass of Malbec while gazing at the snowed Andes mountains in the Cuyo region after a horse-ride through the vines. Picture yourself tasting a refreshing Torrontés surrounded by the colorful hills in Jujuy or Salta at siesta-time. What about ending the day enjoying a glass of Pinot Noir near a fireplace listening to the wind under a billion glowing stars in Patagonia? Isn’t this love at first sip?
Noel and Terry Neelands fell madly in love with Argentina during a trip to the country’s wine region. So they did what any of us would do… they built a winery!
Alright, may be not of all us are that fortunate but at least now because of them we are able to enjoy exquisite wines with romantic names and visit a beautiful winery in the Uco Valley.
THE WINERY
Built by the Bormida and Yanzon architects, the Solo Contigo winery is surrounded by vines and, of course, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer visitors a beautiful view of the Andes. Inside the architects made sure that you feel the warmth of a home. It’s like you’ve been invited to a friend’s house where you can relax in the tasting room or empty a bottle on the patio.
Also, the owners love art therefore exhibitions are held in a room just before the entrance to the fermentation area.
Underground you’ll find a very lovely cellar. Low-hanging chandeliers and a glass enclosed tasting area with a long hand crafted wood table make the perfect spot for an intimate date with your loved one or with the wines that you love!
THE WINES
The Neelands started producing only high-end malbec and then extended their wines to include Sauvignon blanc, Torrontés, Chardonnay and blends of Garnacha, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
The grapes are sourced from Chacayes Geographic Indication at Tupungato in the Uco Valley. Chacayes has poor soil that consists mainly of alluvial gravel and is located at an altitude of 3800 f.a.s.l. A great terroir that is now home to iconic wines.
The couple mainly export to the U.S and Canada so you can easily find Solo Contigo wines at your favorite wine shops.
At the moment the winery produces 5 wines (their names make these wines a great gift for Valentine’s Day!): Primera Amante (first lover), Affaire, Colección, Develado (Unveiled), La Casa de las Musas (The house of the Muses).
The last two were recently introduced last year so they might not be available at the U.S yet. Just another excuse to visit their winery and taste them!
