Luca Old Vine Malbec 2016 Front Bottle Shot
Luca Old Vine Malbec 2016 Front Bottle Shot Luca Old Vine Malbec 2016 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

Spice and black cherry cola aromas with notes of cocoa. The berry flavors pop on the palate from its depth and lively acidity, finishing with hints of espresso.


FOOD PAIRING

Pairs well with foods such as venison or wild game, steak, pork, quail, all types of lamb, and medium-strong cheeses.

Professional Ratings

  • 94

    Pure berry and cassis aromas are concentrated and show no holes. This Uco Valley Malbec feels pure, direct and linear, albeit with slightly scratchy tannins that should dissipate in due time. Blackberry and dry spice flavors finish full and grabby, with muscularity.

  • 93
    Oyster shell, iodine, forest floor, citrus and Chinese spices. So mineral yet spicy on the palate with driven acidity, tight tannins and a fresh yet layered finish. This is so mineral and savory as it closes out. Drink now or hold.
  • 91
    Concentrated boysenberry and Asian spice flavors are strapped together by fresh tannins and zesty acidity in this ripe, juicy style. Offers creamy hints, with dark chocolate and mocha notes on the well-structured finish. Drink now through 2025.
Luca

Luca

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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.

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Uco Valley

Mendoza, Argentina

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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.

YNG386831_2016 Item# 511816