Ep 221: High-Altitude Malbecs – Thibaut Delmotte on Bodega Colomé, Bonarda & His Own Project (Part 2)

In this episode, we return to the high Andes of Argentina with winemaker Thibaut Delmotte of Bodega Colomé to uncover the evolution of Malbec at extreme altitudes. Discover how altitude, climate, and vineyard practices shape Colomé’s flagship wines, and learn about Thibaut’s exciting personal project: Familia Delmotte.

We also dive into Bonarda, explore the stylistic transformation of Argentine wine over the past two decades, and learn how Colomé became not only one of the most celebrated wineries in the world (5 times included in The Worlds 50 Best Vineyards), but also one of the most remote.

Plus, find out what it takes to get there and why it’s worth the journey, especially for a visit to the breathtaking James Turrell light museum.

This is a must-listen for anyone passionate about South American wine, high-altitude terroir, and off-the-beaten-path wine travel.

 

Episode Guide (Chapters)

 

02:25 – The evolution of the Estate Malbec over 23 vintages

04:12 – Differences between low-altitude and high-altitude Malbecs

06:45 – Shifts in winemaking: lighter oak, earlier picking, softer extraction

08:12 – Influence of El Arenal (2,600m) and Altura Máxima (3,111m) terroirs

09.05 - Tasting the Colome Estate Malbec 2022 £24.95 Hay Wines

09:48 – Post-2018 philosophy shift: fresher style and climate adaptation

11:21 – How altitude impacts acidity, tannins, and fruit expression

13:05 – Mendoza vs. Calchaquí Valley vs. Patagonia Malbecs

14:52 – Malbec vs Pinot Noir: a grape of terroir?

16:11 – Why Argentina’s diverse Malbec styles need better communication

17:30 – Natural winemaking, carbonic maceration and stem use with Malbec

18:50 – Thibaut’s side project: Familia Delmotte begins

20:14 – Growing Garnacha, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Marsanne in Salta

21:30 – Sauvignon Blanc + Marsanne: blending freshness with honeyed texture

22:10 – Bonarda in Argentina: styles, history and best expressions

23:47 – Recommended Bonarda wines: Emma (Zuccardi), Altos Las Hormigas ‘Colonia Las Liebres’

26:25 – Meeting Donald Hess and the founding vision of Colomé

28:00 – Building a winery with no electricity or paved roads

29:25 – Blind tasting honesty: the birth of Colomé’s drinkability focus

30:38 – From 4–5 years to 20: Thibaut’s lasting legacy in Salta

31:50 – Being named Top 50 World’s Best Vineyards (x5)

33:10 – Keys to Colomé’s success: team longevity and shared philosophy

34:30 – The James Turrell Museum at Colomé: light, perception, magic

41:00 – How to visit Bodega Colomé: logistics from Salta to Cafayate

42:20 – Planning a wine trip: from paved roads to moonlike landscapes

43:30 – Day visit or boutique hotel stay? Best way to experience Colomé

45:50 – Salta wine travel loop: Cafayate – Colomé – Cachi – Cuesta del Obispo

47:05 – Why wine travel in Salta is an unforgettable sensory journey

48:12 – Final reflections: landscape, altitude, authenticity and people

50:14 – A glass of Torrontés by the pool at Colomé: pure magic

📩 Questions or feedback? Email me: janina@eatsleepwinerepeat.co.uk

 

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Until next time – cheers to you!

 

 

 

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