Rutini’s winemaking team: Mariano di Paola (father), Mariano di Paola (son) and Gonzalo Carrasco
Founded in 1885, Rutini is a winery steeped in tradition but also at the forefront of the dynamic wine scene in Mendoza’s Uco Valley. The identity of Rutini today is synonymous with both tradition and innovation. One tradition that reigns strong in Rutini is the art of blending, although the approach has transformed over the years. ‘Our blending has changed as our knowledge of the micro-terroirs of Mendoza has evolved,’ explains Winemaking Director Mariano Di Paola, who is celebrating his 30th vintage at Rutini this year. ‘The panorama is much wider each year, with so many options to choose from, as we separate soil types, climates, varieties and vinification methods.’
A gift to the family
Today Rutini’s state-of-the-art winery in Gualtallary is a true playground of oenology — filled with different-shaped vats, vessels and barrels. But the modern incarnation of Rutini’s premium blends began in a far more humble fashion in 1997 – and rather unintentionally. ‘I have a very large family with 15 brothers and sisters, and I decided to make a special wine for my family for the turn of the millennium,’ recalls Di Paola. ‘I set aside a couple barrels of a blend I made with Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.’ The excitement and appreciation of all those who tasted the wine, however, forced Di Paola to release the blend commercially rather than keeping it as a family celebratory secret.
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