Winemaker Notes
Critical Acclaim
All VintagesThis is opulent on the nose with plum liqueur, creme de cassis, vanilla, mocha, coffee beans, walnuts and mahogany. Full-bodied and very rich with ripe and bold tannins, an explosion of dark-plum and dark-chocolate flavors. A long, chewy finish.
Reflecting the shift in style over the last three vintages, away from American oak and towards greater finesse, this cuvée of Malbec with 5% Petit Verdot comes from the third terrace of Paraje Altamira. Plush, yet fresh, with masses of perfume and a gentle touch with the oak. 2019-26. Alcohol: 13.6%
The style of the 2016 Susana Balbo Signature Malbec shows the hand of the winemaker, with a little warmer fermentation and perhaps a little more extraction. However, in the cooler and wetter 2016, this feels as fresh and floral as the BenMarco Malbec, and it has a polished and balanced palate, with some fine-grained tannins and clean, pure flavors. Precise, focused and fresh. 100,000 bottles produced. Rating: 92+
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.
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.
