About this episode
In this episode, we return to the high Andes of Argentina with winemaker Thibaut Delmotte of Bodega Colomé to uncover the evolution of Malbec at extreme altitudes. Discover how altitude, climate, and vineyard practices shape Colomé’s flagship wines, and learn about Thibaut’s exciting personal project: Familia Delmotte.
We also dive into Bonarda, explore the stylistic transformation of Argentine wine over the past two decades, and learn how Colomé became not only one of the most celebrated wineries in the world (5 times included in The Worlds 50 Best Vineyards), but also one of the most remote.
Plus, find out what it takes to get there and why it’s worth the journey, especially for a visit to the breathtaking James Turrell light museum.
This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about South American wine, high-altitude terroir, and off-the-beaten-path wine travel.
Episode Guide (Chapters)
02:25 – The evolution of the Estate Malbec over 23 vintages
04:12 – Differences between low-altitude and high-altitude Malbecs
06:45 – Shifts in winemaking: lighter oak, earlier picking, softer extraction
08:12 – Influence of El Arenal (2,600m) and Altura Máxima (3,111m) terroirs
09.05 - Tasting the Colome Estate Malbec 2022 £24.95 Hay Wines
09:48 – Post-2018 philosophy shift: fresher style and climate adaptation
11:21 – How altitude impacts acidity, tannins, and fruit expression
13:05 – Mendoza vs. Calchaquí Valley vs. Patagonia Malbecs
14:52 – Malbec vs Pinot Noir: a grape of terroir?
16:11 – Why Argentina’s diverse Malbec styles need better communication
17:30 – Natural winemaking, carbonic maceration and stem use with Malbec
18:50 – Thibaut’s side project: Familia Delmotte begins
20:14 – Growing Garnacha, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Marsanne in Salta
21:30 – Sauvignon Blanc + Marsanne: blending freshness with honeyed texture
22:10 – Bonarda in Argentina: styles, history and best expressions
23:47 – Recommended Bonarda wines: Emma (Zuccardi), Altos Las Hormigas ‘Colonia Las Liebres’
26:25 – Meeting Donald Hess and the founding vision of Colomé
28:00 – Building a winery with no electricity or paved roads
29:25 – Blind tasting honesty: the birth of Colomé’s drinkability focus
30:38 – From 4–5 years to 20: Thibaut’s
