Winemaker Notes
Excellent with roasted meats, duck, salad, pasta, pizza.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Bottled in March 2015, the 2014 Estate Selection Malbec seems to have changed its origin to Altamira (but it's not explicit on the label). The wine matured in used 225-liter French oak barrels and cement vats. The nose is ripe and fruit-driven, with aromas of dark cherries and plums plus a subdued minerality and a touch of spices. Most noticeable is the really well-integrated oak (only founder and well-seasoned barrels are used for this wine). The palate is juicy, fresh and has good balance with a somewhat bittersweet finish that is attractive and commercial. This is a great expression of fresh and elegant Malbec from Altamira at a very attractive price point. 130,000 bottles produced.
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.