Proemio or Prologue in old Medieval Spanish stands for kick-start or first page. In 2001 Marcelo Bocardo- third generation winemaker of Italian descent founded Proemio, a family-owned boutique winery in Mendoza, Argentina. Proemio has adopted a sustainable approach, with grapes sourced from diverse terroirs with unique soils, altitude and climates. On a beautiful early fall afternoon I was honored to be invited to an intimate luncheon at Le Cirque by Nora Favelukes of QW Wine Exports for Marcelo and his wife Patricia. Fellow wine writers Marisa D'Vari, Harriet Lembeck, Ed McCarthy and Mort Hockstein also were present. Before I discuss my favorite wines let me mention the food. Foie Gras Au Torchon followed by Carre D'Agneau (rack of Lamb) and Creme Brulee. Bravo Le Cirque.
Proemio Reserve Malbec 2015- 100% Malbec with 12 months in French oak. Cherry, chocolate, spice- $20
Proemio Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2015- 100% Cabernet Sauvignon with 12 months in French oak. Spice, pepper- $20
Proemio Grand Reserve 2014- 50% Malbec, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah, 5% Garnacha with 18 months in French oak. Floral, plum, chocolate- $30
Proemio Icon 2013- 55% Malbec, 35% Syrah, 10% Merlot with 18 months in French oak. Blueberry, chocolate, spice- $60
Testa Wines is the importer. www.testawines.com
www.proemiowines.com