A Modern Winery with Old Bones

Today, the family has transformed their slice of harsh Patagonian steppe into a vinous paradise, complete with more than 400 acres under vine, a state-of-the-art winery—and dinosaurs.
 
While building their estate, the team came upon a set of enormous bones, which researchers soon confirmed belonged to a previously unknown type of Aeolosaurus. They were around 75 million years old. The remains were transferred to a nearby paleontology center—where the new genus was deemed Panamericansaurus Schroederi, as an ode to the family—and construction resumed. However, the find has had a lasting effect on the Schroeders’ cellar.

Their facilities, about 72 feet high, are built into the side of a valley slope. This constant contact with the cool earth helps maintain naturally low temperatures, while the incline allows for gravity-flow processing that minimizes the use of pumps and helps preserve fruit’s purity. 

Grapes are sorted and destemmed on the top floor, and are moved downward through the building to be pressed, fermented and aged. The finished wine is kept in barrel at the bottom level, which also houses a hollowed-out enclave to preserve the area where the bones were discovered.

Apart from being a huge draw for visitors (and an excuse to show off their innovative production process), the memorial has become a part of the Schroeder Estate’s identity and a reminder that Patagonia is so sensationally wild.

Honoring A Legacy

Roberto Schroeder has the biggest hand in day-to-day operations these days, working closely with head winemaker Leonardo Puppato, who has been with the winery since the beginning. The two get along so well, they seem to read each other’s minds in the cellar, always pushing each other to do better and better.

We’ve had the privilege of working with the Schroeder family for more than a decade now. And in that time, have watched their winemaking evolve and tasted along as the wines have become increasingly nuanced.

When we learned they had long wanted to craft a red that would stand above any of their others—something unique that would honor their pioneering legacy—we knew they would be perfect for Vineyard Partners. The program has given them the freedom to see their dream come to life, letting them forget about the financials and focus on making the best wine possible.

That’s how El Patrimonio (“the heritage”), a blend of Cab Sauvignon and Cab Franc, finally came to be. It’s their passion project, their “Grand Vin,” their greatest offering. And you’ll have exclusive access when you partner with the family.