José Zuccardi: Argentina’s wine visionary

WHEN VINEXPO ASIA returned to Singapore last May, the energy may have felt more subdued compared to its 2023 debut, but for me, it was all about encounters with fellow oenophiles, both new and old acquaintances.

- BY THE GLASS SHERWIN A. LAO

One of the more memorable moments that stood out in this Vinexpo was my spending some time at the Zuccardi booth, with no less than José Zuccardi, the second-generation steward of Familia Zuccardi, one of Argentina’s most acclaimed wine dynasties. It was a rare opportunity to taste their diverse portfolio, including their natural wine line under Santa Julia, and their most prized wines from the Finca Piedra Infinita series while having the one and only José Zuccardi himself present.

LEGACY ROOTED IN INNOVATION

The Zuccardi story began not with wine, but with water.

In 1963, Alberto Zuccardi, a civil engineer, planted his first vineyard in Mendoza’s Maipi region — not to make wine, but to demonstrate his innovative irrigation system. What started as a technical showcase soon evolved into a lifelong passion for viticulture.

By 1968, Alberto had built a winery, and the Zuccardi name began its journey into Argentina’s wine history.

Alberto’s son, José Zuccardi, joined the business in 1976 and transformed it from a bulk wine producer into a global brand.

José was among the pioneers who successfully pitched high quality Argentine Malbec to the world, helping redefine the country’s wine identity.

Today, José and his son Sebastian Zuccardi (third generation), are the father-and-son tandem managing and growing the Familia Zuccardi business.

The winery exports to over 70 countries and has earned accolades such as World’s Best Vineyard for three consecutive years (2019-2021) and was named New World Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2022.