THE WINE
This blend of 75% Semillon and 25% Torrontés is crafted with minimal intervention—grapes are destemmed, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and undergo malolactic fermentation, with just a touch of sulphur added post-fermentation before bottling. The result is a gently aromatic wine, where the cool climate brings vibrant freshness, complemented by a juicy texture and a lively, zesty finish.
 
THE PEOPLE
Ballena del Sur is a collaboration between Les Caves de Pyrene and Sebastián Zuccardi, third-generation winemaker and head of Zuccardi—one of Argentina’s most respected and forward-thinking wineries. Renowned for his commitment to organic viticulture and the exploration of diverse terroirs, Sebastián has shifted the winery’s focus to the cooler, high-altitude Uco Valley in Mendoza. It’s from this premium region that the two Ballena del Sur wines are sourced, reflecting his dedication to purity, place, and innovation.
 
THE PLACE
The Uco Valley, located in Mendoza at the foothills of the Andes, is one of Argentina’s most prestigious wine regions. Known for its high elevation, cool climate, and diverse soils, Uco produces wines with exceptional purity, freshness, and elegance. The altitude—ranging from 900 to over 1,500 meters—allows grapes to ripen slowly, preserving acidity and enhancing aromatic complexity. While Malbec is the flagship variety, the region is also gaining recognition for its outstanding Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and other varietals. Uco's focus on terroir-driven, often organically farmed wines has made it a focal point for innovation in Argentine viticulture.