Mendoza’s Vendimia 2010
Vendimia 2010 is in full swing in Mendoza, Argentina and I am experiencing it for the first time as an American long-term visitor, amateur wine drinker turned Argentine wine fanatic. Never before have I seen an entire
community come together to celebrate the art and science of wine making. Over the past 10 years, Argentina has achieved world-wide recognition as a viable wine region, an accomplishment that the natives are absolutely delighted with. Although the Vendimia is an old tradition, it has recently been noted as one of the largest festivals of Argentina, and an international attraction. With that being said, Mendoza is in the spotlight and I, along with thousands of spectators, are here to see what the big fuss is about and to take part in the celebration.
The Vendimia is the one time of year where the team behind the scenes, are reveled as geniuses, heroes, and masters of Science. As a foreigner, I notice there is something unique about the wine culture here in Mendoza. There is a sense of true pride when the team involved in the winemaking process presents their final products to the public. However, there is an even greater feeling of respect for the nature of their crop, and the profound natural bounty of sunlight, fresh mountain snow melt, and the overall climate that permits the success of their beloved vines. When visiting the Mendoza wineries, one thing that you will find other than deliciously crafted wines is sincere passion for this art.
For the next week, the city has a packed social calendar to entertain the city dwellers and the tourists. From my home, close to Parque General San Martin, not a night has gone by without the booming background noise of nearby concerts, food festivals, and more. I decided it was time to take part in the action, so the first event I attended was the “MEGADEGUSTACIÓN” (which was exactly how it sounds).
Three blocks of downtown Mendoza were blocked off for the event, tents were set up and 200-some wineries were placed side by side with their respective wines on display. It was a night out on the town for the winemakers, owners, and tourism staff who worked behind their booth all night to discuss and share their creations. With $25 pesos, you received a wine glass, a program listing all of the featured wineries, and 6 tickets to taste whatever your heart desired. Here in Argentina, it is noted that wineries provide quite generous pours during their wine tasting, and on this night despite the crowds, there was no exception. First thing was first, $5 peso bag of steaming carne empanadas… so as my friend waited in line, I made my way through the crowd to fill our glasses with the juicy Malbec, by Familia Cassone, Obra Prima 2007. After scarfing down a quick dinner and managing to juggle my camera, empanadas, wine glass, and tickets, the real fun began.
I worked my way through the street, stopping at wineries I already knew, the ones I have always wanted to visit, and the many others that I had never heard of to check out what was in production. My notable favorites of the night were Monteviejo’s Festivo Torrontes 2008, an extraordinary blend by Montequieto of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon , Belasco de Baquedano’s Malbec Rosé, a fresh and fruity Viognier from Tapiz, and the velvety Malbec from Melodía. As I stopped to chat with familiar faces of the industry, the gorgeous Vendimia Queens made their way through the crowd to snap photos and chat with their fans. Around 11pm the firework show began which were set off at the nearby Plaza Independencia, which was having a party of its own, The festival de Vendimia of Mendoza City.
Later that evening, we felt the shocks of the devastating earthquake that hit Chile. As I enjoyed a late-night ice cream in downtown Mendoza, the ground began shake and we ran towards an open space away from nearby buildings. Concerned Mendocinans came down from their apartments in pajamas, asking others if they knew anything. Another thirty minutes passed and we felt an after-shock. It wasn’t until early the next day when I discovered the news about our neighboring country and the horrifying damage that resulted. This fierce natural disaster will absolutely impact the attendance rate of the Vendimia Festival, as we expected many Chilean visitors. This week, I will participate in a donation drive where we will collect necessary items to be sent to the families in need in Chile. Nevertheless, the show must go on and stay tuned for news on this week’s Vendimia happenings in Mendoza!
loved your post. I’m gonna show this to my (future) bf heh. Hope you’re having a good Sunday. – Dani