Winemaker Notes
These patches of stony soil are very low in organic material and very high in mineral content. Their poor profile naturally brings down yields for an exceptional concentration of aromas and flavors. Their rocky character imparts a stony texture to the Malbec wines. The Manos Negras Stone Soil Select Malbec is made entirely from select Malbec grapes from these patches of stone soils.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2015 Stone Soil Select Malbec is sourced from the same vineyard in Altamira used for the regular Malbec, but here they selected a patch of vines that has a higher content of limestone. The main difference I noticed here is the texture and mouthfeel, with a slightly drying, austere sensation here, the chalky tannins that stick to your teeth and at the same time provide a sapid sensation and a long, tasty finish. 20,000 bottles were filled in February 2016.
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Decanter
A promising nose of violets, dark chocolate and coffee mixed with cinnamon and blackberry which all translate lovingly to the palate. The alcohol feels warm and round, but there is still a freshness here.
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.