Winemaker Notes
Tinto Negro wines are meant to reflect the heart and soul of Malbec in Mendoza. The portfolio explores the terroirs of Mendoza where Malbec does best, gradually isolating unique vineyard sites and wine making techniques which can showcase the heights of concentration and complexity to which Malbec can aspire.
Malbec has a wonderful affinity for co-fermentation – vinifying with small amounts of Cabernet Franc intensifies Malbec’s floral character while the limestone soil profile lends finely grained tannins.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
Gritty, smoky black-fruit aromas come across as fully oaked. Racy acidity drives this nicely balanced Malbec grown on limestone soils, while blackberry, plum and a touch of oakdriven vanilla complete the flavor profile. On the finish, this is warm and ripe, with juicy acidity offset by chocolaty oak; drink through 2024
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The slightly riper (tasted next to a 2018) 2017 Limestone Block Malbec is a co-fermentation of Malbec and Cabernet Franc from Los Chacayes in the Valle de Uco. There are notes of black fruit and violets, juicy tannins and a soft and approachable palate with integrated acidity and good harmony. Here, the tannins are the signature of the wine, with a chalky sensation despite the approachable overall character it has.
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.