Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
This shows finesse with blueberry, mineral and blackberry character. Medium to full body, bright acidity and a tangy citrus finish. A balanced and drink-me-know Malbec.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
There is quite a jump in quality form the Paso de Piedra to the 2012 Las Compuertas Malbec, which is an old-vine selection from the same vineyards in Las Compuertas. It fermented in stainless steel and aged for 12 months in used barrels. The nose is clean and quite aromatic with sweet fruit, notes of pollen and beeswax with some sweet spices. The quite balanced palate is soft, with textbook glossy tannins that make it go down your throat like silk. It is pleasant and easy to drink.
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.