Winemaker Notes
Carrascal Malbec has a perfect combination of the typical Cahor nose of violets, and the fruit expression of Mendoza. It also shows deep floral and inky notes, aromas of dried plums and cherries, in addition to toffee and leathery notes from its aging in wood casks.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
A reddish color veers away from the normal blackness displayed by most Argentine Malbecs. Aromas of herbs and grass blend with oak, damp leaf, raspberry and red currant scents. There’s edgy aggressiveness to the palate, which is acid driven while dealing cherry, plum and oak flavors. Peppery spice, herbal notes and intensity drive the finish of this always interesting expression of Malbec
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.