Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
A deep and juicy malbec with a splash of dark chocolate and peppery spice to the rich but fresh blackberries and a hint of cigar box. Full-bodied and concentrated on the palate with quite intense flavors and a lengthy finish. Tight, but quite polished. Drink or hold.
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Vinous
The 2020 Malbec Gran Medalla from the Uco Valley spent up to 18 months in oak barrels. Purple in the glass. The aromas offer blackberry, blueberry, plum, ash and cedar. It's juicy and indulgent with finely grained tannins before the long, dark-fruit-inflected finish. This is a properly balanced 2020 Malbec.
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Wine Enthusiast
There is a rich nose of licorice, cassis and earthy aromas that lead to a concentrated, yet fresh palate. Excellent acidity adds energy to the mix of cherry, plums, cranberry and chocolate nibs that fill the mouth.
Trapiche represents the richness of diversity in Argentina. Trapiche's motto is "where there is soil, the sky is the limit" and this leads the brand to explore Argentina's extensive lands in search of new experiences. Since 1883, Trapiche has been located in Maipú, in the province of Mendoza, and is the leading Argentine winery in terms of production and exports, reaching over 80 countries. Since the beginning, Trapiche has understood the promise of viticulture in Argentina. Trapiche specializes in bringing out the best of each terroir and creating unique wines from each. This diversity is possible thanks to 3000 acres of owned vineyards and 300 independent producers who contribute their best grapes for the wines. Quality, innovation and diversity have always been the pillars that guide Trapiche's journey.
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.