Winemaker Notes
A classically Argentine wine, Alamos Malbec blends the country’s signature variety – Malbec – and its hypnotic aromas of violets and deep, full flavors of plum with small portions of Syrah and Bonarda to add dark cherry and blackberry flavors. Deft oak usage adds layers of complexity with smoothly-integrated tones of spice and vanilla. The full, firm structure and balanced tannins create a rich mouthfeel and expansive finish, and an entirely unforgettable wine.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Lavender, licorice, a touch of dark plums and spices. Fresh and very focused with juicy tannins, generous blue fruit and a plummy yet taut finish. Fresher, early-drinking style of Malbec.
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.