Zuccardi wines, the winery that put Argentina on the wine map, is positioning Argentina to become a major player in the global wine industry. Currently, ranked the fifth largest wine producer in the world and the first in South America, Argentina is rapidly moving to become a major player in the international wine industry. With the increasing popularity of Argentinean wines, Zuccardi has stood out to become one of the most recognizable brands in this exploding category.
“In Canada, the rapid growth of New World Wines continues, and is showing absolutely no signs of slowing down,” says José Alberto Zuccardi, owner of Zuccardi wineries. “InCanada, Argentina has become the fastest growing New World wine maker, with its white wines growing at a staggering 275% (2009 over 2008) and reds increasing by 162% during the same time period. In fact, Argentinean wines have shocked the Canadian marketplace by becoming more popular than Chilean wines. Zuccardi and Fuzion lead this movement with fabulous new varietals being introduced to Canada this spring,” Zuccardi says.
Zuccardi’s success can be attributed to a number of factors. The winery was the first in Argentina to experiment with new grape varieties – and now, many of these wines have become hugely popular throughout the world. The winery combines both New and Old World attitudes. The New World attitude is represented by modern thinking and ideas, whereas the Old World is reflected in the winery’s culture of food, family and friends. This strong focus and commitment to both quality and value, have created a passion for innovation and experimentation within the vineyards.
Zuccardi winery is the second-largest winery in Argentina. Located in Mendoza, one of the eight wine capitals of the world, the winery is situated in a region that provides many natural advantages and attributes that have made it perfect for the creation of wines. With plenty of sunshine and heat during the daytime, it is ideal for grape growing and for the creation of full ripened grapes. Zuccardi’s “Parral” training system has also aided in maximizing the potential sunlight. The training system allows for maximum solar access to the vine leaves setting the canopy at an angle facing the sun in what is effectively a solar screen. This guarantees the health of the leaves and encourages better aromatic expression in the fruit, and a superior natural acidity. The low level of insects and low presence of mold has allowed for an environment easy for viticulture. In addition, the high altitude makes for cool nights, helping to balance the wines and form the crisp acidity.
Zuccardi is truly a family business, with three generations of the family influencing and molding this progressive brand. Founded in 1963 by Alberto V. Zuccardi and directed today by his son, José Alberto Zuccardi, the winery’s culture of hard work is shared by the more than 700 people who work at the winery.
“Familia Zuccardi winery’s success can be attributed to a number of elements, but we believe that our passion for the people, the land and family contributes a great deal to that success,” says José Alberto Zuccardi. “I take great pride in knowing that this is a multi-generational business, and that each of my three children has helped mold a successful winery – not only for us, but for the rest of the world,” Zuccardi adds.
Familia Zuccardi is recognized as a leading Argentinean winery that produces outstanding wines, and with a clear commitment to quality and innovation. Also recognized as an industry leader with its sustainable business practices, Zuccardi works to emphasize its organic and sustainable farming practices and environmental initiatives like reducing bottle weight. Wines are made with equipment which optimizes all necessary resources, and is in accordance to the highest of quality standards. Zuccardi uses the latest available technology throughout the entire wine making process.
Rapidly becoming known to consumers as the winery that produces varietals that are “great wine at a great price”, it is the perfect blend of European character and New World attitude. Dedicated to producing wines that convey the extraordinary potential of Argentina, Zuccardi offers a wide range of varietals including: Fuzion Shiraz/Malbec 2009 ($7.45), The No. 1 retail product sold at the LCBO in 2009; Fuzion Alta Torrontes/Pinot Grigio 2009 ($8.95), Fuzion Organic Malbec Cabernet 2009 ($12.95); Santa JuliaReserva Malbec, Mendoza 2008 ($13.95); Zuccardi ZETA Malbec Tempranillo 2006 ($49.95), Zeta is Zuccardi’s top wine and for the first time is being released at Vintages.