Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2008 La Violeta is the sophomore release of their flagship pure Malbec raised in the same way as La Violette in Pomerol and is bridled with 15.5% alcohol. It has a heady, opulent bouquet that, dare I say, reminds me of its Pomerol counterpart in its youth. It offers a smorgasbord of ripe red cherries, creme de cassis, vanilla and blueberry jam all wrapped up in creamy new oak. The palate is full-bodied with plush velvety tannins and low acidity. Everything here is beautifully intermarried with new oak melted into the texture. It is decadent and sumptuous and will appeal to hedonists and classicists alike. Drink now-2016+.
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James Suckling
Attractive nose of ripe dark plums, coffee, roasted cocoa beans and dried herbs. Full-bodied with powdery, chalky tannins. Lovely chocolate and walnut character. Plush and delicious with a generous, fleshy mid-palate.
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.