Altos Las Hormigas

Founded in 1995 by two young Italians, winemaker Alberto Antonini from Antinori and entrepreneur Antonio Morescalchi, Altos Las Hormigas emerged as one of the pioneering Malbec producers in Mendoza, continually striving for innovation. To their team, Malbec is more than just a grape; it represents the significant risk they embraced nearly three decades ago when the region was primarily known for Cabernet Sauvignon.

In 2012, Altos Las Hormigas took a major step forward, transitioning from a boutique value winery to a serious, terroir-focused player in the world of Malbec. They followed the advice of terroir consultant Pedro Parra, a PhD holder from L’Institut Agro Montpellier. They decided to stop using new oak or small barriques, opting instead for older, untoasted barrels and concrete tanks.

Simultaneously, the winery invested in the untapped potential of Mendoza’s cooler, high-elevation Uco Valley and launched their Terroir Project. They shared the ambition with other top producers to create a unique appellation system in Mendoza that would showcase both the Malbec grape’s nuances and the geographical diversity of their region.

This thoughtful approach to decision-making, from the sustainable farming of their vineyards to the aging process in barrels, has resulted in wines that are increasingly expressive and elegant. This is particularly evident in their latest releases, such as Jardin de Hormigas, and their exquisite Appellation Series, which highlights the mineral-rich sites of Gualtallary and Altamira.

During the spring, there was little rainfall, setting the stage for a unique season for Altos Las Hormigas Malbec. As January arrived, two significant heat waves, typical in Mendoza, influenced the vines, which thrived under these hotter conditions, enhancing the Malbec’s concentration and robustness.

Altos Las Hormigas Los Amantes series reflects a unique dedication to terroir and varietal expression, utilizing 100% hand-harvested Malbec grapes. This boutique approach ensures that each grape contributes its fullest potential, creating wines that are both balanced and expressive.

With temperatures ranging from 24-28°C for ten days, the careful management of vineyard conditions was crucial. The winemakers at Altos Las Hormigas implemented a meticulous double sorting process and utilized separate stainless steel tanks to ensure the finest quality for each batch of wine.

In the pursuit of sustainability and excellence, Altos Las Hormigas has embraced an early harvest philosophy, aiming to capture the natural acidity and vibrant flavors of the Malbec grape. This thoughtful decision-making process is evident in their wines, which showcase a perfect blend of power and elegance.

Nestled in the high-elevation areas of Luján de Cuyo, 70% of the vineyards show a fine silt sandy texture, ideal for cultivating the Malbec grape. This geographical advantage allows Altos Las Hormigas to produce wines with a unique, mineral-rich character that is both sublime and well-renowned.

This season, the heatwaves contributed not only to the concentration of sugars but also helped increase the natural acidity in the grapes, resulting in wines that are both well-balanced and supple. This innovative approach highlights the winery’s commitment to producing high-quality, expressive wines that truly reflect their unique terroir.