Winemaker Notes
Deep ruby red. Creamy mocha-chocolate notes jump out first, followed by very ripe blackberries and some mulberries. The full-bodied palate garners a bit of dried fruit, too, but not in a jammy way. Rich and concentrated with dense, ripe tannins to seal it all.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2023 Malbec Reserve aged for 18 months in French barrels from three different cooperages. On the nose, blackberry dominates, with hints of prune and balsamic herbs over fine oak. Complex, broad and smooth, with plush tannins, it delivers flavor and energy. The old vines contribute significantly to this rich, vibrant expression from a warm vintage.
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James Suckling
This has aromas of smoke and tobacco to the black berry fruit. Graphite, too. It’s full-bodied, firm and savory, with medium-chewy tannins. Toasty finish. Vegan. Sustainable. Drink from 2026.
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Wine Spectator
A deep and rich version built on concentrated berry and plum flavors, with herbal notes underneath and a briny olive detail lending a mouthwatering quality and a juicy finish around ripe tannins.
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.
With a winning combination of cool weather, high elevation and well-draining alluvial soils, it is no surprise that Mendoza’s Uco Valley is one of the most exciting up-and-coming wine regions in Argentina. Healthy, easy-to-manage vines produce low yields of high-quality fruit, which in turn create flavorful, full-bodied wines with generous acidity.
This is the source of some of the best Malbec in Mendoza, which can range from value-priced to ultra-premium. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay also perform well here.