Winemaker Notes
Beautiful deep violet color with exploding aromas of blackberry, black cherry and blueberries framed by hints of spices and mint. The wonderful aromas are mirrored on the palate and they are joined by ripe plum fruit and notes of toasty vanilla, bittersweet chocolate and a hint of mint on the finish. This is a ripe and rich style of wine with long velvety finish.
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Ripe blackberry, blueberry, plum, violet, sandalwood and ash on the nose. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, silky tannins and fresh acidity. Juicy, bright and delicious. 94% malbec and 6% petit verdot. Drink now or hold.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2019 Susana Balbo Signature Malbec, produced with grapes from Finca La Delfina in Paraje Altamira, contained 4% Petit Verdot, and that could be the reason why it felt a bit roasted when tasted next to the 2018 that was balanced by Cabernet Franc. It felt slightly riper, and the tannins were grainy. It needs food. 144,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in August 2020.
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.