Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Wonderful aromas of blueberry, smoke and tar. Floral too. Full body, with ripe and juicy fruit and an orange undertone. Round texture. Flavorful finish. What you like about malbec is certainly here. Drink now.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2009 Seleccion de Bodega Malbec demonstrates more composure and focus on the nose with blackberry, fig and blueberry scents. The palate is medium-bodied with a succulent entry. It is fleshy and caressing, with fine tannins and lovely blueberry and cassis notes towards the finish. It handles the oak well and should drink well over the next decade. Drink now-2022.
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Wine Enthusiast
Meaty and savory on the nose, this has rubbery, dark, intense aromas that suggest blueberry and exotic spice notes. The palate is round and chunky but a bit hollow on structure. Flavors of Graham cracker, herbal blue fruits and cardamom finish with weight but good balance. Drink through 2016.
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.