Bodegas Y Vinedos O. Fournier Alfa Crux Malbec 2010
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Wine Spectator
Plush and rich, with concentrated flavors of dark plum, porcino, baker's chocolate and blackberry. This has a core of dried beef and Asian spice notes that linger on the powerfully creamy finish. Drink now through 2018.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2010 Alfa Crux Malbec is sourced from 10- to 20-year-old vineyards in the Uco Valley, fermented in oak vats (14,900 liters) and then transferred to barriques (80% French and 20% American) for malolactic fermentation and further aging where it matured for 20 months. It is very dark-colored, quite young and primary, with upfront fruit, notes of violets and a hint of smoked peat. It is intense and powerful, with sweet tannins and an acid spine that lifts the wine and gives it great freshness. Drink 2014-2021.
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In 2007, after a three-year search for the best vineyards and terroirs in Chile, the O. Fournier Group commenced its winemaking practices. In Chile, O. Fournier has selected the most exciting areas to develop vineyards and produce wines. The group has acquired properties in Lo Abarca (San Antonio Valley) and Loncomilla (Maule Valley).
Celebrated for its bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec has enjoyed runaway success in Argentina since the late 20th century. The grape originated in Bordeaux, France, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. A French agronomist, who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. Somm Secret—If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet with its combination of dense fruit and soft tannins.
With a winning combination of cool weather, high elevation and well-draining alluvial soils, it is no surprise that Mendoza’s Uco Valley is one of the most exciting up-and-coming wine regions in Argentina. Healthy, easy-to-manage vines produce low yields of high-quality fruit, which in turn create flavorful, full-bodied wines with generous acidity.
This is the source of some of the best Malbec in Mendoza, which can range from value-priced to ultra-premium. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay also perform well here.