Winemaker Notes
A beautiful red and purple color with aromas of black cherries, dark fruits, dark chocolate and baker’s spice. On the palate, the wine shows dense, dark berry and plum flavors along with hints of sandalwood and spice, and even a hint of violets in the finish. This is a full-bodied and well-structured wine that is incredibly full of life and born to be enjoyed with food and friends.
It goes great with many foods, especially meat and barbecue. Unique recipe ideas include: Grilled Polenta with Wild Mushroom Ragout, Grilled Quail with Quinoa, Currant and Pine Nut Pilaf, or Wild Boar, Sage and Dried Cherry Risotto.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Subtle roasted spices, sour cherries, hibiscus and bramble berries. Youthful and quite lively palate with a fruity core of ripe, juicy berries and cherries. Flavorful finish.
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.
By far the largest and best-known winemaking province in Argentina, Mendoza is responsible for over 70% of the country’s enological output. Set in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, the climate is dry and continental, presenting relatively few challenges for viticulturists during the growing season. Mendoza, divided into several distinctive sub-regions, including Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, is the source of some of the country’s finest wines.
For many wine lovers, Mendoza is practically synonymous with Malbec. Originally a Bordelaise variety brought to Argentina by the French in the mid-1800s, here it found success and renown that it never knew in its homeland where a finicky climate gives mixed results. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir are all widely planted here as well (and sometimes even blended with each other or Malbec). Mendoza's main white varieties include Chardonnay, Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.