We hear a lot about terroir and soils, but there is no substitute for a great team in winemaking, from the guys who prune to those who clean the barrels. Mariano di Paola has known this for decades, and as one of Mendoza's "Deans of Winemaking", he has built a long history of collaboration.

If you’ve met Mariano, you know that his greeting is like a big bear hug. If you work for him, you know that this hug extends to his every day dealings. Mariano makes sure his team enjoys lunch with him every day, including regular tastings of his high-end wines, and he makes sure they have wine for their homes at the end of every month. After all, they’re the ones who help make it happen! His Christmas parties are legendary and include everyone’s extended families (up to 400 people some years!). Take the expertise and experience of a great winemaker (Ma = Mariano) who sources the best possible grapes in Mendoza, wrap them around dedicated people (pe = people), and you’ve got incredible ma-pe-ma wines