KAIKEN ULTRA MENDOZA MALBEC
Kaikenes are wild geese, native to Patagonia, that fly across the Andes between Chile and Argentina. In the same way, legendary Chilean winemaker Aurelio Montes crossed the Andes to make wines in Mendoza. After several exploratory trips, Aurelio saw the enormous potential for premium viticulture in this region and founded the Kaiken winery in 2002. He aims to make great wines in Mendoza and, in doing so, to show the best of both sides of the Andes.
Kaiken’s estate vineyards are planted in the heart of Mendoza and further south in the Uco Valley, where many premium producers are now sourcing fruit. Their focus is primarily on Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, a variety once almost forgotten in the region. As a result of Kaiken’s protection, there are now several old vine Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in Mendoza that produce excellent wines, including Kaiken’s vineyard in the Vistalba district of Luján de Cuyo which was first planted in 1910.
The 2021 harvest in Mendoza presented unique challenges and opportunities. Despite a very dry spring, January and February saw unusually high rainfall, exceeding the previous two years. While spring temperatures mirrored those of recent seasons, the cooler conditions in January and February delayed the harvest slightly. This slower ripening process resulted in more expressive white wines with excellent natural acidity and well-concentrated reds. The 2021 vintage will be remembered for producing wines that are more elegant and fresh.
The grapes were hand-harvested in April. At the winery, a meticulous hand selection process ensured only the best clusters were used. The grapes underwent a seven day pre-fermentation maceration at a cool 10°C in concrete tanks. Fermentation followed for seven days at a controlled temperature of 26°C with selected natural yeasts. Post-fermentation, the wine was left on the skins for 20 days to extract tannins and flavours. Natural malolactic fermentation took place in concrete tanks. The wine was then matured in French oak barrels, one-third new, one-third second use, and one-third third use, for 12 months. The wine was then aged in bottle for an additional 6 months before release.
This wine exhibits an intense red colour with vibrant violet and blue hues. The nose reveals bold aromas of blackberries and violets, with delicate notes of white flowers, black fruits, and subtle hints of white pepper and clove. Oak ageing adds a touch of vanilla. On the palate, it offers a soft, silky entry with well-integrated tannins, balanced acidity, and prominent flavours of blackberries, raspberries, wood, and spice. The long, persistent finish leaves a delightful sensation with lingering hints of liquorice.
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