Pampa El Cepillo recognized as a GI

By Estudio Chaloupka

The National Institute of Viticulture (INV) recognized the region of Pampa El Cepillo as a geographical indication located in the department of San Carlos, province of Mendoza. The request was submitted by Bodegas Esmeralda and the INV considered that it meets the requirements for a GI, a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.

Pampa El Cepillo is located immediately south of Paraje Altamira, also a GI, acknowledging the region’s unique characteristics for the cultivation of the vine and the production of high-end wines. In addition to an altitude of more than 1000 masl, the irrigation with pure water of thaw and great thermal amplitude in the valley, it has a great presence of calcium carbonate.

In 1999 the INV issued a resolution that established the basic standards of the geographical production areas that, due to their aptitudes for the production of grapes, can claim access to a a Geographical Indication GI. Since the qualities depend on the geographical place of production, there is a clear link between the product and its original place of production.