Winemaker Notes
Intense violet color, with wildflowers, black fruits, blueberries and nicely integrated oak aromas. It is deep and rich, with flavors of black berries, cherries, spice, and minerals. This is a powerful but balanced wine, with firm tannins and beautiful complexity.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2018 Malbec Pyros Vineyard Block N° 4 from the Pedernal Valley was aged for 12 months in French barrels, a tenth of them new. Vivid purple in hue. The nose, which has a little biscuity liqueur to it, presents notes of country herb and bay leaf with hints of dark fruit such as blackberry and blueberry and a whiff of lavender and other dried flowers. Bold in the mouth, it has a juicy, chalky texture and relaxed structure before the ripe, fruity finish.
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James Suckling
A full-bodied red with round, creamy tannins and plenty of fruit, yet it’s fresh. Nicely done from this area. Drink or hold.
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Wine Enthusiast
Coming from Pedernal, a new wine region just north of Mendoza province, this Malbec has a spicy and vegetal character. Subtle aromas of oak spice are followed by cassis, blackberry and a touch of salt. The full-weight palate delivers plums and blackberry mixed with Jarilla, rosemary and smoke. It has a mineral texture matched by splendid acidity. It's ready to enjoy now, but will benefit from bottle aging.
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.
This very hot and arid region produces fine red wines from Bonarda, Syrah and Malbec and solid, fruity white wines from Pinot grigio, Viognier and Chardonnay.