Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2011 Malbec Vineyard 1955 is from La Consulta, an old vineyard planted in 1955 that they bought in 2010. The soils are a mixture of sand and lime, and, as with all old vineyards, there is a field blend where Malbec is dominant. But there’s a myriad of other red grapes mixed in the vineyard that are all picked and vinified together. I had the chance to walk this magnificent vineyard, on the border of Altamira. The wine is dark-colored, with a pungent and intense nose of ripe cherries, baking spices and a lactic touch. The palate shows natural concentration and balance with round, sweet tannins, a sense of harmony and refreshing acidity, ending long and supple. Wait one more year and enjoy its slow evolution in bottle. Drink 2015-2022.
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.
By far the largest and best-known winemaking province in Argentina, Mendoza is responsible for over 70% of the country’s enological output. Set in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, the climate is dry and continental, presenting relatively few challenges for viticulturists during the growing season. Mendoza, divided into several distinctive sub-regions, including Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, is the source of some of the country’s finest wines.
For many wine lovers, Mendoza is practically synonymous with Malbec. Originally a Bordelaise variety brought to Argentina by the French in the mid-1800s, here it found success and renown that it never knew in its homeland where a finicky climate gives mixed results. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir are all widely planted here as well (and sometimes even blended with each other or Malbec). Mendoza's main white varieties include Chardonnay, Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.