A robust wine that shows no notable influence from oak, but also shows no need for any, as the fruit flavors are more pure than usual in this Malbec, and there’s plenty of natural tannin for structure provided by the grapes’ skins and seeds. Dark color accurately indicates the wine’s meaty character and intense flavors recalling dark berries.
Deep and brooding, its melted chocolate cedar-raspberry center drapes across the palate. Rich and inviting, with well-groomed tannins wrapped in silk scarves.
Spiced sandalwood and blackberry purr, a more energetic vintage than the ’16 with the agility of a stalking feline. Tannins are dry and chalky, but approachable, lengthening savory notes of tobacco, licorice, bittersweet dark chocolate, and umami.
I first tasted this in 2023, the wine was aged in 100% new French oak for three years, and a year in bottle. Tasting it again, the arousing aromas of roasted coffee beans and crushed blackberries revive the senses. Its former grip has lightened up, but the tannins remain broad and giving, thanks to its intensity and ripeness of fruit. Dried violets and Black Forest cake notes are sumptuous and lengthens the finish with grace.
Cranberry and tobacco are weaved together with smooth tannins. Acidity is bright, with clove and cinnamon-kissed woodsy tones.
Aromas of blackberry and dark chocolate are intriguing. Satin-lined tannins offer a hint at chalky, volcanic minerality, with a backbone that carries the liquid on a smooth pathway. Black cherry, fig, and beef broth adds a juicy glossiness, bathing the palate with white chocolate cedar and dusted blueberries on the finish.
Jasmine and ginger season notes of pineapple and lime rind. Perky acidity refreshes, while stone fruit softens the linear mineral notes on the finish. Lovely!
Rose petals glaze over Morello cherries with a gelée seasoned with cinnamon and savory, meaty aspic. Hints of Bay leaves and umami center on the palate, with a satin-lined mouthfeel.