Winemaker Notes
This wine stands out for the complexity of its aromas of black fruits and violets. The palate has good structure, with fine-grained tannins, notes of black fruits, graphite, pepper and spices supported by refreshing acidity and a rich lingering finish.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
The winery's single vineyard series presents wines from its best estates in Uco Valley. This Malbec comes from La Pampa vineyard at 4,265 feet. A combination of fruit from a cool climate subregion and the classic style of the house results in a wine with good acidity and depth. Rich fruit and oak spices show in the form of cherry, blackberry and nutmeg in the firm palate.
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Vinous
The 2018 Malbec Salentein Single Vineyard Viñedo La Pampa 1997 is made with grapes from Salentein’s original vineyard in the Uco Valley and aged for 16 months in used barrels. A dark purple in hue, the complex, attractive nose presents intense aromas of candied plum, liqueur and hints of thyme, chocolate and notes from the aging process. Terse with slightly grippy tannins, the character builds in the mouth with good structure, mild, juicy acidity, a meandering flow and a long finish that ends with an aftertaste of candied fruit.
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.