Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2010 Alluvia Vineyard Malbec comes from a 2.40-hectare parcel of bush vines aged in new French oak for 14 months. The nose is very floral with violets and dried rose petals, with just a hint of sea salt in the background. The palate is full-bodied, with a little more backbone and delineation than the El Alto. It shows fine delineation and poise towards the finish. While it is by no means a cheap Malbec, it is surely one of Argentina’s finest. Drink 2014-2024.
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Wine Enthusiast
There's plenty to like in this Tupungato Malbec, but since it was made from young vines, it's limited in depth, with angularity to the palate. Flavors of spicy plum and berry come with substantial oaky support, while the finish is lively, bouncy and holding onto its acidity. This may not improve but it's definitely not fading; drink through 2024.
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.