back to all posts

Per Se: A Testament to Passion and Innovation

Vineyards in Argentina
January 21, 2025

Per Se: A Testament to Passion and Innovation

Per Se embodies everything I love about wine. It transcends status, money, and mass production, standing as a true work of art. At its core lies a profound passion—a passion that challenges stereotypes and invites everyone to experience wine in its purest form. Per Se is about quality, creativity, and an unwavering love for the craft. Many aspire to achieve what Per Se has accomplished, but only a select few reach this level of excellence.

In the Northeast, Per Se isn’t widely known, and if you’re familiar with it, chances are you’re already a fan of Argentine wines. For those in the know, finding PerSe in the U.S. can be a challenge—and visiting their vineyards in person is even more elusive. I was fortunate to connect with Santiago and turn a long-held wish into reality.

The journey to Per Se begins with a noticeable shift in scenery. While many Argentine vineyards are located on flat plains at elevations of 3,000–4,000 feet, the road to Per Se climbs steeply to nearly 5,000 feet. Unlike the sprawling vineyards below, the landscape here feels untouched, dotted with pine trees and quiet beauty. Arriving at the property, I was struck by the uniqueness of the vineyard. The vines, scattered across slopes and peaks, are unlike anything I’ve seen before—reminiscent of the Loire Valley’s Domaine Belargus “Les Treilles.”

Established in 2012 by David Bonomi and Edy del Pópolo, Per Se is nestled in the Monasterio zone of Gualtallary, within Argentina’s renowned Uco Valley. The vineyard sits at an impressive 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level. Its soils, rich in white chalk and decomposed granite, are a rarity in Argentina. These chalky soils, prized for their drainage and mineral richness, give Per Se wines their vibrant acidity and pronounced minerality.

The vineyard’s steep slopes and high elevation create an environment that’s as challenging as it is rewarding. Cooler temperatures and intense sunlight slow the ripening process, concentrating flavors and preserving the grapes’ natural acidity. Each small plot—less than 0.5 hectares in size—produces fruit with distinct characteristics. Remarkably, grapes on adjacent rows may ripen weeks apart due to the unique microclimates created by the varied terrain.

Per Se’s philosophy is deeply rooted in the expression of terroir. Edy del Pópolo, an agronomist and viticulture expert, has devoted his career to studying Argentina’s diverse landscapes. Along with David Bonomi, a celebrated winemaker, the pair brings decades of experience to the project, combining innovation with respect for tradition. Their approach is meticulous: every decision, from vineyard management to harvest timing, is made with the singular goal of showcasing the land’s unique character.

Walking through the vines, I noticed the extraordinary care given to each plant. Santiago described the vineyard as his personal garden, and the attention to detail is evident. Per Se’s philosophy is clear: low yields and meticulous vine management lead to exceptional wines. Their vines thrive in an environment of minimal intervention, with a focus on sustainability and a deep respect for nature.

Currently, Per Se is constructing its winery, so the tasting experience was delightfully unconventional. Santiago and his father brought everything needed for the day, and we enjoyed our tasting at a picturesque table nestled among the vines. Sitting with Edy del Pópolo, one of the co-founders, and listening to his passion for the project was an unforgettable experience.

Together, we shared three extraordinary wines: Inseparable Malbec, Per Se La Craie, and Per Se Volare del Camino.
    •    Inseparable Malbec: This 100% Malbec is approachable yet sophisticated, with a velvety texture and notes of ripe red berries, earth, and spice. It’s the most accessible of the three and a true pleasure to drink.
    •    Per Se Volare del Camino: A step up in complexity, this wine boasts concentrated red and blue fruit flavors, a touch of spice, and a long, mouthwatering finish.
    •    La Craie: The pinnacle of the tasting, La Craie is unforgettable. Its vibrant acidity, firm tannins, and bold structure create a wine that’s as refined as it is powerful. Aromas of crushed flowers, raspberries, and plums mingle with subtle spice for a wine that lingers on the palate—and in the memory—for weeks.

The wines are a reflection of the meticulous process behind them. Per Se operates on a small scale, with production volumes that emphasize quality over quantity. This exclusivity, paired with their uncompromising standards, makes every bottle a treasure.

As we wrapped up, Santiago and Edy shared their newest project: recently planted Chardonnay vines. These vines are still in the early stages, but the potential is exciting. Their commitment to innovation is inspiring. Per Se isn’t content with merely making great wine—they strive to push the boundaries of viticulture in Argentina, crafting wines that elevate the entire region.

Per Se’s dedication to exploration and creativity sets it apart. From the unusual vineyard layout to the painstaking care given to each vine, their wines are not just a product—they are an experience.

To Santiago and Edy: thank you for your hospitality and for sharing your remarkable vision with my family and me. Per Se is a testament to what can be achieved when passion and artistry meet. Gracis!

Vineyard in Argentina with the AndesPerSe wines Vineyards in Argentina


While we unfortunately do not have an Per Se wines in our inventory we do have some Argentinean wines you can check out here

Written by: Carson McEvoy of Bordeaux Bard 

Join Our Mailing List

Receive invitations, updates, and more!