Matias Riccitelli ‘Old Vines from Patagonia’ Merlot 2022 – Rio Negro, Argentina

Buy Matias Riccitelli Old Vines Merlot Online – Rich, Complex Patagonian Red Wine

Matias Riccitelli 'Old Vines from Patagonia' Merlot 2022 is a full-bodied, opulent red wine crafted from 60-year-old, ungrafted vines along the Rio Negro in Patagonia, Argentina. This exceptional Merlot offers deep layers of wild dark fruits, velvety chocolate, and fragrant herbal notes of lavender and rosemary. Aged partially in French oak barrels and vats, it boasts remarkable complexity, balance, and length.

Why This Wine is Special

Old Vines, Exceptional Terroir

Sourced from a rediscovered vineyard in Allen, Rio Negro, these Merlot vines—planted over six decades ago—are nurtured in sandy, clay-loam soils. Patagonia’s unique diurnal temperature swings allow for a long ripening period, intensifying flavour concentration and tannin refinement. Traditional Vertical Shoot Positioning and flood irrigation preserve the character of the fruit.

The Winemaker’s Touch

Winemaker Matias Riccitelli, son of renowned Argentine winemaker Jorge Riccitelli, brings decades of global winemaking expertise. Since establishing his winery in 2009, he has been committed to expressing the full potential of Argentina’s terroir, combining innovation with respect for tradition.

Winemaking Process

Hand-harvested at optimum ripeness, the grapes undergo cold maceration for five days before fermentation with indigenous yeasts in small concrete vats at 26–28°C. A 20-day post-fermentation maceration extracts maximum colour, tannin, and aromatic depth.

• 50% aged in first, second, and third-use French oak barrels.

• 50% aged in 1,000L French oak vats for added elegance and complexity.

Tasting Notes

• Appearance: Deep ruby with garnet edges.

• Aroma: Fragrant herbal lift of lavender and rosemary over ripe blackberries, plums, and cassis.

• Palate: Concentrated layers of black fruit, vanilla, chocolate, and subtle spice. Silky yet structured tannins create a long, generous finish.

• Style: Full-bodied (Body E) with 14.5% ABV.

Awards & Recognition

• Patagonia Wine Awards 2024 – Gold Medal

• Decanter World Wine Awards 2024 – 92 Points

• Tim Atkin MW Argentina Report – 93 Points