If you are looking for an introduction to organic wines, one or more of Domaine Bousquet’s Varietal Series wines will be a delicious introduction. These wines are fresh and balanced. If you are already acquainted with organic wines, you will also appreciate how reasonably priced these wines are. We recently tasted four wines from the current release, which we received as tasting samples.
Domaine Bousquet takes organic viticulture and winemaking seriously. The winery’s estate vineyards have been farmed organically since they were planted on virgin land in 1998, and the vineyards and winery are certified organic. Organic certification is the foundation upon which Demeter Biodynamic certification and Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) has been built. Domaine Bousquet is the first winery in Argentina to earn ROC.
Domaine Bousquet’s social commitment matches its commitment to the environment. They have earned B Corp Certification and Fair for Life certification. And just to confirm that Domaine Bousquet really is an overachiever, their wines are certified vegan and they make kosher wines.
Domaine Bousquet’s Varietal Series wines are sourced from estate vineyards and partner vineyards, all certified organic, in the Gualtallary sub-zone of Argentina’s Uco Valley. Here at a 4000 foot-plus elevations the climate is dry with warm days and cool nights. Breezes blowing down off the Andes Mountains help regulate warmer temperatures. The soils are mostly sandy, and low in vigor — a good thing for grape vines because if they struggle to produce fruit, they also produce a less vigorous canopy.
Let’s Taste
2023 Domaine Bousquet Sauvignon Blanc, Tupungato Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina — pale yellow with generous aromas of guava, oat hay and dry grass. Flavors are a combination of tropical fruit and dry grass with juicy acidity. 12.5% abv. SRP $13
2023 Domaine Bousquet Unoaked Chardonnay, Tupungato Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina — medium yellow with aromas of ripe melon and dusty gravel. Flavors include melons and pears with citrus zest. Juicy acidity lingers on the finish. 13% abv. SRP $13
2022 Domaine Bousquet Cabernet Sauvignon, Tupungato Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina — medium ruby with generous aromas of black berries and plums with hints roasted red bell peppers. Flavors include blackberries, raspberries and crunchy plums with background flavors of roasted red bell pepper. Tannins are firm, fine and drying in a medium body. 14% abv. SRP $13
2022 Domaine Bousquet Malbec, Tupungato Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina — medium ruby with aromas of ripe plums, blueberries and dusty earth. Flavors include blackberries, blueberries and plums. Tannins are grippy and gauzy in a medium body. 14% abv. SRP $13
You will notice all of these wines are labeled Made With Organic Grapes, meaning all grapes are certified organic, the winery is certified organic and the wine contains only up to 100 ppm sulfur dioxide.
The Sauvignon Blanc and Unoaked Chardonnay are perfect for a warm afternoon served along appetizers or a light meal. Serve the red wines with grilled chicken, grilled pork or lamb burgers or pizza. These wines are very easy drinking.
Thanks to Creative Palate Communications for organizing our tasting.
Cheers!
