Argentinian Bodega Otronia has mastered winemaking in the cold conditions in 'one of the wine world's last southern frontiers'.
On the shores of Lake Musters, known as Otrón to ancient settlers, in Sarmiento, Chubut province of Patagonia, Bodega Otronia takes on the challenges posed by the region's natural elements, which include high winds and a dry, cold climate. Located at the heart of Patagonia at latitude 45°33', the winery claims to represent the last southern frontier for cultivating vines, creating "wines defined by nature, at the edge of the impossible." Bodega Otronia is a proud member of Alejandro Bulgheroni Family Vineyards.
Bodega Otronia began planting its organic vineyards in 2010, featuring a diverse selection of grapes, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Torrontés, Riesling, Merlot, and Malbec. The winery's plots span 52 hectares, situated at an altitude of 258 meters above sea level. Otronia manages two organic vineyards: Paico, which is known for its Lacustrine soil, and Sierra Silva, characterised by its Fluvial soil.
The Paico vineyard is planted with Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer. In contrast, the more southern Sierra Silva vineyard offers a broader variety of grapes, including Malbec, Torrontés, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc, excluding Pinot Gris.
Both vineyards face challenging climatic winds, with speeds exceeding 100 km/h. Protection with natural barriers and fabrics ensures the vines' survival. Once safeguarded, the wind becomes a crucial factor in shaping the characteristics of Otronia's wines. It helps create a disease-free environment and promotes the concentration of aromas, flavours, and textures by thickening the grape skins.
In Sarmiento, the extremely low temperatures make it one of the coldest regions in Argentina. To survive these conditions, the winery employs an anti-freeze system that forms a layer of ice on the vines. This creates a protective igloo effect, preventing the temperature of the plants from dropping below 0ºC and avoiding cellular damage.
The intense sunlight during spring and summer in the cold region facilitates the ripening process, enhancing richness and flavour development while preserving high acidity levels.
Otronia Winery, led by head winemaker Juan Pablo Murgia and international consultant Alberto Antonini, has successfully overcome challenges to produce elegant and distinctive wines. Utilising precision winemaking techniques, the winery maximises the potential of its challenging yet rewarding terroir. Otronia emphasises extensive research, organic practices, effective vineyard management, careful plot identification, and meticulous vinification processes.
Wines with distinction
The winery offers a wide range of organic wines from its namesake Otronia label to 45 Rugientes and Lagunar collections, as well as recently launched sparkling brut and rosé wines. Otronia's core expressions, Pinot Noir 2020 and Chardonnay 2020, as well as 45 Rugientes 100% Pinot Noir 2021 and Corte de Blancas 2021, are available in the UK through importer and distributor Liberty Wines.
The winery's flagship ruby-red-coloured Pinot Noir 2020 is made with grapes from Block I in Paico vineyard. The 100% Pinot Noir is distinguished by its notes of raspberries and cherries, complemented by hints of dry herbs, truffle, and freshly cut flowers. The palate is delicate yet possesses a persistent structure. Silky tannins, combined with firm natural acidity, give this wine unique vitality and depth.
In contrast, the Otronia Chardonnay 2020 is made with grapes harvested from plots three and six from Paico Vineyard. The wine showcases a pale yellow colour with aromas of white fruits such as peach and pear and floral notes, and features well-balanced aromas of herbs, chamomile tea, and thyme, complemented by a refreshing palate.
The 2021 45 Rugientes 100% Pinot Noir is the result of various batches and has gone through 20 to 22 months of ageing in French oak foudres and concrete vats. The wine presents aromas of cherry and strawberry, enhanced by spicy hints of black pepper and cinnamon. On the palate, it reveals juicy acidity and culminates in a long, defined finish.
Lastly, the 45 Rugientes Corte de Blancas 2021, crafted from 35% Chardonnay, 30% Gewürztraminer, 20% Pinot Gris, and 15% Riesling, has also matured in French oak foudres and concrete vats for up to 22 months. It exhibits notes of tropical fruits, citrus peel, and jasmine, along with floral aromas. The palate is fresh with delicate minerality and excellent acidity.
