Winemaker Notes
#35 Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2023
Intense, with aromas of black cherry, spice, and violet. The wine has amazing grip but with silky, mineral-driven tannins taken from the uniqueness of the terroir, and flavors of blackberry and fresh cherries.
Professional Ratings
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Vinous
The 2019 Malbec Pyros Appellation from the Pedernal Valley was 85% aged in used barrels for 12 months. Hailing from a vineyard that takes special care of native flora, the lovely, slightly liqueur-like nose presents notes of licorice, touches of amaretti, sour cherry and plum aromas with hints of herb and thyme. Quite smooth on the palate with slightly reactive, chalky tannins, it delivers moderate freshness and good flavor at the end. This is a new style for the house and the Pedernal Valley as a whole, adding an extra dimension.
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Wine Spectator
Exudes aromas that foreshadow what's to come, with a central chalky-slate presence and fresh violet and mountain herb nuances underneath. Features generous raspberry and plum flavors that are fresh and pure, buoyed by lively, chalky acidity. Ends with finesse and fine tannins.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2019 Appellation Malbec has intense aromas of honey and beeswax with an herbal, creamy and spicy twist, probably from the 12 months in French and American oak barrels. It's juicy and ripe without excess at 14% alcohol. It has fine, chalky tannins. Better with food.
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.