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In Conversation With… La Linda
In Conversation with María Belén Rodriguez of La Linda by Bodega Luigi Bosca
Underpinned by the winemaking philosophy of our friends at Bodega Luigi Bosca in Mendoza, the La Linda wines reflect the unique terroir of Mendoza. Winemaking is overseen by a talented young winemaker, María Belén Rodriguez.
The La Linda wines include the beloved Torrontés and Malbec, with the new 2022 vintages receiving silver medals at the recent Decanter World Wine Awards. Maria Belén says, ‘Our wines stand out for being expressive, balanced, and fruity; they are very refreshing and approachable. We strive to truly express Mendoza’s terroir and altitude in the winemaking process while adhering to the work philosophy of Luigi Bosca.’Maria Belén talks us through her journey into wine, her winemaking approach, and her passion for Argentinian wine.
How did you get inspired by wine and the industry? Did you grow up near vineyards or with people who loved wine?
I grew up in Luján de Cuyo which is the heart and soul of Mendoza. Every child growing up in the area is surrounded by vineyards and wineries, they are enchanting. What many do not know though is that I actually grew up just a few blocks from the La Linda vines. I have always been close to them.
Since I was a child I have wanted to make wine. It was while studying Chemistry though that I began to really think. For that reason, my first work when I was 17 years old was in a winery. As I said, I grew up surrounded by wineries. And I fall in love with wine every day.
I always say that La Linda is the best project I can be involved with because these are wines and styles that I like to enjoy with my friends. I try to reflect that in the wines; easy drinking, food friendly, fresh and yet bold. They are the wines that I want you to enjoy when you are with loved ones.
In my opinion, the main difference is the winemaker’s team. I have so much admiration for the wonderful group of professionals; it is a diverse group of women and men committed to producing the best wines that they can from these sites. Creating wines of elegance is always our priority and I think you see that expressed across every wine in the range.
What have been your biggest recent challenges and successes?
One of my biggest challenges and successes has been to be the La Linda winemaker. It is a great responsibility to represent one of the most prestigious and traditional lines of Luigi Bosca.
I am very passionate about experimenting with technologies and varieties every year. The latest and most important project for me has been our Organic Malbec. The production of this wine was exciting and challenging but predominantly I have found it to be so rewarding.
I really like to enjoy wine in different moments, such as barbecues with my family and friends. For me, wine is best enjoyed with good company. I also love a gin & tonic! I’ve been exploring different combinations this summer.
One of the things that I see, and I am proud of and admire in the Argentinian wine world is that there are a lot of young winemakers. Their work, together with the more experienced winemakers, leads to constant innovation and the search for new styles. As a young winemaker myself, I have been so fortunate to have some incredible mentors. I hope to be a mentor to others in the years to come.