‘Extreme winemaking’ best describes Alejandro Bulgheroni’s ambition to produce world-class, cool-climate Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Patagonia’s far south. Otronia is located at 45.33° S in the province of Chubut, the most southerly winemaking region in the world. Their vines are planted on the shore of Lake Musters, once called ‘Otron’ by the region’s indigenous people. The environment here is incredibly hostile, with very little rainfall, bitterly cold temperatures, year-round frost risk and blusterous winds of up to 110km/hr, all providing highly challenging conditions for viticulture. In addition to implementing nets, thousands of trees have been planted to help shelter vineyards from battering gales. Proving that fortune favours the brave, these merciless conditions give rise to elegant wines with distinct vibrancy, aromatic intensity and a unique sense of place.
In 2010, 50 hectares of organically certified vineyard were planted with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Torrontés, Riesling, Merlot and Malbec. These comprise a fascinating mosaic of small, individual plots; each meticulously selected for a specific variety according to its soil type and microclimate. In the winery, rising star Juan Pablo Murgia (named ‘Young winemaker of the Year’ by Tim Atkin MW in 2021) is supported by world-renowned consultant winemaker Alberto Antonini. Alberto’s influence is evident in their hands-off approach. They also use concrete eggs and large, neutral French oak to enhance the wine’s character, not mask it.
The ‘45 Rugientes’ wines are named after the extreme 45-degree latitude of Otronia’s vineyards and their strong winds (‘Rugientes’ translating to ‘roaring winds’). The Pinot Noir is sourced from several blocks, each vinified separately and carefully blended before ageing (80% in aged French oak foudres) for 18-20 months.
