Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
I was blown away by the 2011 Alluvial Parcel Malbec. The wine is produced from grapes grown in Gualtallary, the highest part of Tupungato in the Uco Valley at 1,350 meters altitude, and the particularity here is that the vines are not trained on trellises, they are head-pruned like in the old way. The altitude, and of course the chalky soils, provide first-quality grapes that were fermented with neutral yeast and matured in new barrels for 14 months. The nose is ripe, subtle and elegant with violets and berries, but they do not dominate. Nothing is too much on the nose. The palate shows sweet tannins and a silky texture with very good acidity and length. This is stunning, elegant Malbec from Gualtallary.
-
James Suckling
Bright and fruity with a lovely violet, blackberry and mineral character. Full body, fine tannins and a fresh finish. Balanced and refined. Drink now or hold.
-
Wine Enthusiast
Warm, earthy, slightly horsey berry aromas are brambly and spicy. This Malbec feels flush but reduced and hard at the edges. Potent but crude boysenberry and plum flavors show a raisiny note, while this is long at the end, with earth notes and lemon peel.
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.