Winemaker Notes
Orange peel and balsamic flavors combine harmoniously the violets and red fruit notes typical from Malbec. Mineral notes and sharp acidity give this wine a character of its own.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Beautiful purity of fruit here with blackberries, black cherries and violet undertones. Full-bodied with layers of fruit, fine tannins and a flavorful finish. Juicy and creamy at the same time. Delicious now, but better after 2023.
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Wine Enthusiast
An aromatic nose of red and black fruit followed by rosemary transports you to Mendoza. There is a delicious hint of licorice. Tamed by wood aging, this elegant wine has vigorous acidity and chalky tannins that are typical from Altamira. A good balance of fruit and herbs offers cherry and blackberry mixed with bay leaf and rosemary on the palate. It finishes with cherry and chocolate.
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.