Caluna is the Greek name for the Heather flower, the ephemeral violet-colored blossom found on hillsides from Scotland to North America. A symbol of admiration and good luck, the flower is also believed to have protective powers. While not indigenous to Argentina, the Heather flower has been known to flourish on the dry hillsides of Mendoza, and adds a splash of cheerful color to the landscape. The wine bearing its name is similar, reflecting the convergence of good fortune, adaptability, and youthful spirit, along with the 100-year winemaking tradition and know-how of the Toso family who produced it.

Caluna 2009

The blend of 48% Malbec, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Merlot comes from low-yield, sustainably farmed vineyards in Agrelo at 3,215 feet above sea level. Grapes were hand-harvested into 33 lb. boxes the second week of April. They underwent pre- and post-fermentative cold soaks, and underwent malolactic fermentation in barrique. The wine is unfiltered and unfined, and was aged in new French oak barrels for 14 months.

While exhibiting the full-bodied fruit forwardness of all wines from Argentina, this wine possesses an elegance that is unmatched among other Argentine wines. Its color is a beautiful intense purple, and it entices with racy aromas of blackberry, cherry, black pepper and mocha. On the palate, it has velvety cassis notes, with an undercurrent of plum, dense black cherry, smokiness from the oak, and graphite. Its fresh acidity keeps its full body in check and its incredibly long finish leaves an unforgettable impression. In its short lifespan, Caluna has already become one of the top blends coming out of Argentina today. Only 9,000 bottles were made.