“Single vineyard wines handcrafted from scratch” is an adage that comes directly from Finca Decero, a winery situated in the Agrelo sub-appellation of Mendoza, Argentina. Finca Decero began planting vineyards in 2000 on a clean slate of soil at 1050m/3500ft above sea level, selected for its incredible terroir with its pure connection to glacial melt water and unique plots of soil. The winery was appropriately titled Decero, which translates “from scratch”.

Agrelo

The sub-appellation of Agrelo lies within the Lujan de Cuyo appellation of Mendoza. This premium landscape has vineyards planted on the west side of the Andes mountains, at remarkable elevations that range from 900m/3000ft. - 1050m/3500ft. above sea level. Some of Argentina’s most popular producers own vineyards in this coveted sub-appellation that offers optimum soils and growing conditions for the planting of Argentina’s flagship grape - Malbec, and also, other big red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

Since growing conditions in Agrelo can be quite harsh, with a dry, desert-like climate, and threats of hail damage to the vines, Finca Decero were proactive in setting up hail protection and drip irrigation for their vineyards since they first planted on the land. The grapes here experience prolonged, and intense sun-exposure providing sufficient grape ripening, while at the same time harnessing the fresh acidity that the cool nights provide. With meticulous nurturing, grapes grown at the highest elevations in Agrelo can allow wines to express finesse, depth, and intricate complexities.

Earth and Wine

Finca Decero incorporates their deeply rooted connection to the earth in all aspects of the winery, from the vineyard to production, and this is delightfully apparent in the wines. They’re a certified vegan winery in addition to embodying a strong focus on sustainability. From the drip irrigation system that reduces water waste and recycling water used in the winery, to using lightweight machinery in the vineyard to cut back on emissions, Finca Decero implements several practices that respect the earth and its natural ecosystem. Because of this, the winery makes a perfect host for soft-adventure tourism and bird watchers as there are over 40 species of birds that visit the biodiverse property.

Winemaker Tomás Hughes, who has studied both viticulture and winemaking, had a long time dream of working daily at one with nature. He explains: “For me, joining Finca Decero is a reflection of who I am and what I have learnt over the years about the inextricable link between the earth and wine. Only by working day in day out with Matias Cano as viticulturist, understanding the intricacies both below and above ground from the soil to the differences by vine, by row and by block and the climate of this high elevation in Remolinos Vineyard can I nurture authentic wines which are expressive, vintage by vintage, of this unique terroir.”