Winemaker Notes
Intense red with violet tints. The aromatic profile expresses the sharpness of red fruits such as raspberries and blackberries. Intense and deep on the nose. Full-bodied palate with vibrant tannins. Round structure and a juicy finish.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Spiced black cherries, blueberries, chocolate and a touch of graphite. Juicy and medium-bodied on the palate with firm tannins and a medium-long finish that makes you salivate. Fruity and succulent. Vegan. Drink now or hold.
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Tasting Panel
Bright boysenberry sets an animated tone for this pretty red. Velvet-lined tannins create a slick mouthfeel sparked by white pepper and enlivened by hibiscus.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2022 Golden Reserve Malbec was fermented in stainless steel and matured for 12 months in barrique with a small portion of foudre. Opening with a ripe, candied nose of red fruits, fresh herbs and dried flowers, the palate is straightforward and precise, concluding with a plush, drying 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.