08 Malbec
93 Points, Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate, 2009
"The 2008 Malbec spent 12 months in 60% new French oak. It is a glass-staining opaque purple color with an enthralling perfume of sandalwood, Asian spices, lavender, black cherry, and plum. On the palate this concentrated effort admirably combines power and elegance. Smooth-textured, spicy, and rich, it will evolve for 2-3 years and offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2023."
91 Points, Wine Spectator, 2009
"Densely packed with fig sauce, blueberry and blackberry fruit, all wound together by dark cocoa, black licorice and fruitcake notes. The long, fleshy finish has impressive depth, with lingering mint and dark coffee notes. Drink now through 2011. 9,000 cases made. -JM"
90 Points, Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, 2010
"Good bright, deep ruby. Expressive nose offers blueberry, cassis, violet, pepper, licorice and menthol. Sweet, creamy and deep, with a chewy texture to the blueberry and dark chocolate flavors. A weighty style but kept fresh by strong underlying acidity. Finishes with plush, ripe tannins and a lingering chocolatey sweetness."
Wine Details
| Country | Argentina |
|---|---|
| Region | |
| Appellation | |
| Region/Appellation | |
| Alcohol | 14.5% |
| Color | Red |
| Still/Sparkling | Still |
| Special Features | |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Varietals | Malbec |
| Wood Treatment | 12 months in 60% new French, 40% second-use French oak |
Tasting Notes
This is a great example of Mendoza Malbec. Incredible color—could use it in an inkwell! Loads of spice and black cherry cola aromas with notes of cocoa. The berry flavors really pop on the palate as the wine has both good depth and very lively acidity that leads to an incredibly long finish. A bottom note of freshly brewed espresso keeps the mouth watering too. This one is a teenager at the moment, and should age very well (and not talk back when you don’t give it the car keys!). Pairs well with foods such as venison or wild game, steak, pork, quail, all types of lamb, and medium-strong cheeses. A very flexible wine due to its concentration and balance.
