Winemaker Notes
The 2021 Selección Malbec is a reserve wine from Mendoza, one of Argentina's most prolific winegrowing regions. In the glass, their Malbec reveals a dark, inky color while releasing aromas of crushed violet, leather and black tea leaves. The palate fills with notes of dark cherry and black plum underscored by layers of cocoa. Soft tannins give the wine a full, smooth mouthfeel, leading to a rich finish with a touch of black currant and white pepper.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Blueberries, currants, stones, licorice and tea leaves on the nose. Medium-bodied with ripe, creamy tannins. Succulent, solid core of blue and dark fruit.
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.