Matias Riccitelli Old Vines Semillon 2024
Matias Riccitelli Old Vines Semillon 2024 is a dry, medium-bodied white from Sémillon (Patagonia, Argentina), in the rich, round whites style. Acidity is fresh; oak influence is little. Good with white fish, roast chicken, goat cheese, blue cheese. Drink now or within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Critic score 96/100 (merchant-reported). Cheapest offer £44.18 at 8wines UK.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant, but best to open it half an hour before service. Located in the Mendoza wine region of Argentina, the Riccitelli winery was founded in 2009 by Matias Riccitelli, son of renowned winemaker Jorge. The Semillon grapes come from two sites located at 400 meters above sea level in the Río Negro region of northern Patagonia. Here, the vines, more than fifty years old, are rooted in alluvial soils and enjoy excellent exposure, intense sunlight throughout the day, and a significant temperature range. These conditions favor slow ripening and ensure balanced acidity in the wine. After manual harvesting, fermentation takes place at low temperatures, partly in used barriques and partly in concrete vats. The low yields, the soil and climate conditions, and the meticulous attention to detail during the winemaking process ensure a pure expression of the grape variety. The result is a rich and lively wine with a broad and fragrant aromatic profile. On the nose, it opens with notes of citrus and pineapple, lemon zest and vanilla, wildflowers, and subtle hints of almond and hazelnut. On the palate, it is fresh and balanced, structured and elegant, with lively acidity and a long, juicy, and delicately savory finish. It pairs deliciously with sea bass, chicken in lemon sauce, and goat cheese.