Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Produced with grapes from different villages in the Valle de Uco, the 2016 Malbec was cropped from a cool and rainy year. It fermented in stainless steel tanks after a cold soak and matured in new and used French oak barrels for 12 months. I love the nose, which I find to be spectacular, expressive, open, floral and with a good combination of fruit and spice. The palate is super tasty, with fine, slightly grainy tannins and nice acidity that would make it a good Malbec for the table. Simply delicious. 135,000 bottles produced.
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.
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.