Familia Millán of Argentina has been named “Winery of the Year”, according to the 2024 edition of the Descorchados Guide, a reflection of the excellence and dedication that is put into the production of its wines. The Descorchados Guide, directed by the renowned Chilean journalist and winemaker Patricio Tapia, is an authoritative and reference source within the world of wine. Since 1999, this publication has evaluated and highlighted the best of South American wine production, becoming an undisputed reference for professionals and wine enthusiasts. The designation of Familia Millán as Winery of the Year is not only a tribute to its quality, but also a recognition of its trajectory and innovation in the sector.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Mendoza, Familia Millán epitomises the essence of Argentine winemaking heritage. Founded by the Millán family, the wine roots stretch deep into the fertile soils of Argentina’s premier wine-producing region. For generations, the Millán family has stewarded their vineyards with a profound reverence for the land, crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir and rich tapestry of Mendoza’s viticultural landscape. At the heart of Familia Millán’s winemaking philosophy lies a deep-seated appreciation for terroir — the intrinsic characteristics imbued by the land, climate, and geography of each vineyard.

It was in 2002 that José Millán, a supermarket entrepreneur, along with his family bought the Armando Hermanos winery, an old bodega in Mendoza, thinking that it would be a good space to build another one of his supermarkets. However, the architectural beauty of the estate, which was built in 1922, so captivated him that he decided to venture into wine production. The first of the wineries, Bodega Los Toneles, began operation in 2010 followed thereafter by Mosquita Muerta, Fuego Blanco and Elodia, under the Grupo Millán umbrella. Familia Millán has no less than 14 vineyards in the Uco Valley from which the finest wines from their labels are carefully crafted to exquisite perfection.

Familia Millán’s portfolio encompasses an impressive array of varieties and styles, from several labels, showcasing the diversity and richness of Argentina’s winemaking heritage. The recent accolade bestowed upon Familia Millán as Argentina’s Bodega of the Year by Descorchados reaffirms its position as a standard-bearer for Argentine wine on the global stage, in the process becoming a benchmark for high-quality viticulture. The Descorchados 2024 Guide has recognised several Familia Millán labels with high scores, including labels from its four emblematic wineries in the region, three of them located in the province of Mendoza and one in San Juan: Mosquita Muerta Wines, Bodega Los Toneles, Abrasado and Fuego Blanco .

In addition to being recognised as Winery of the Year, the Descorchados 2024 Guide also highlighted several labels produced by its wineries with high scores and today,
Thursday Food introduces you to four of their iconic Malbecs:

Mosquita Muerta Black Malbec is a 95-point, 100 per cent varietal that is made from a combination of grapes harvested in Los Arboles and Gualtallary by Mosquita Muerta Wines. It is a classic mountain blend, with the presence of herbal notes and balanced acidity, making the fruit aromas feel fresh and deep. This is a wine with great body and long life.

Fuego Blanco Flintstone Malbec is also a 95-point wine produced in San Juan’s Pedernal Caley by Fuego Blanco Wines. The wine expresses black and red fruit of good intensity, as well as spicy tones and barely evident wood. On the palate it offers high freshness, intensity of flavour and moderate tannic structure making it full of flavour and with a chalky texture.

Bodega Los Toneles Tonel 137 Malbec scored 94-points in the rankings and is an intense red wine with bright, violet reflections produced by Bodega Los Toneles. On the nose it is intense and complex exhibiting notes of violets and red fruits, tobacco, cocoa and subtle notes of vanilla from its long maturation in barrels. In the mouth, it is a very concentrated wine, but at the same time pleasant on the palate, having great structure and depth.

Bodega Los Toneles Tonel 78 Malbec-Bonarda scored 92-points and is a Malbec-Bonarda red vintage also by Bodega Los Toneles. The wine has a very intense red colour that is almost black. Its aromas are very complex and intense. Marked notes of red fruits and black olives, perfectly integrated with notes of spices and coffee from its maturation in barrels. On the palate it is a wine with great body and volume in the mouth, offering friendly tannins and ending in a fresh, long finish.

Familia Millán stands as a shining example of Argentina’s winemaking prowess, captivating enthusiasts worldwide with its exceptional wines and unwavering commitment to quality. With each bottle bearing the imprint of its rich heritage and visionary spirit, Familia Millán invites wine lovers to savour a taste of Argentine terroir and embark on a journey that celebrates the artistry, passion, and enduring allure of South American wine. Salud!