Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2013 Petite Fleur Malbec from six to 17-year-old vines in Vista Flores fermented in stainless steel with some 5% full clusters. Seventy percent of the volume went through malolactic and aging in second and third use oak barrels for one year and the rest was kept in stainless steel. It has a fresh, perfumed nose with abundant notes of violets and raspberries, quite showy and fragrant. The palate is medium-bodied with soft, round tannins and moderate acidity. If it had a little more freshness in the palate this would be phenomenal. Still, it's a noteworthy effort for the price.
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.