Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2022 Malbec Diamandes de Uco aged for 12 months in French barrels, 30% of which were new. This is fruity, with blackberry, plum, mountain herbs and a touch of balsamic notes over a fine oak backdrop. It is dry and broad, with a compact, juicy texture. The 2022 finishes with a lingering fruity note.
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James Suckling
Rich aromas of blackberries, graphite and hints of cedar. The palate is medium- to full-bodied with supple, creamy tannins and linear dark berry character. Medium length. Clean and polished.
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Jeb Dunnuck
Softly textured, the 2022 Malbec DiamAndes de Uco is well-made and medium-bodied, with focused red fruit and supple tannin. The length is moderate. The wine is drinking well now and should age another 8-10 years.
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.