Argentina 2016 Special Report

Transcription

a TI M ATKI N MW
S PEC IAL R E P O RT
Argentina 2016
Special Report
by Tim Atkin MW
£15 €19 $22 © 2015 Tim Atkin
TIM ATKIN ARGENTINA 2016 Special Report
Contents
Pg
05Introduction
07 Winemakers of Argentina
17 The 10 things you need to know about Argentina
25 Map of Argentina’s growing regions
26 A short guide to Argentina’s growing regions
28 The podium
29 The 2016 Argentinean top 100
32 A classification of Argentina’s best producers
34 A note about scoring and my classification
35 Tasting notes
124 Complete scores A-Z
147 Recommended restaurants in Argentina
147 Further Reading
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Page 02
Introduction
Crisis, what crisis? It makes a pleasant change to be writing my 2016
report at a time of comparative optimism in Argentina. A year, never
mind a week, is a long time in politics and the country has altered
radically in the last 12 months. In fact, the upturn in its fortunes is
even more recent than that. Mauricio Macri was elected president on
November 23 and has set about righting Argentina’s economic woes with
impressive energy since he took office in December.
The peso has been devalued, effectively doing
Catena, owner of Catena Zapata and a trained
away with the “dollar blue”, which traded at 25-
economist. “In the last month,” he says, “I have
30% above the official rate, exchange controls
been contacted by an American and a Spanish
have been relaxed and Argentina appears to
investor, both of whom are looking to buy a
be on the verge of settling its debts, allowing
winery here.” Catena is a Macri fan. “This is the
it to return to capital markets after a 15 year
first time we’ve had a president who isn’t either
ban. The government still needs to secure the
a lawyer or a general. He’s an engineer and a
necessary votes in Congress to repeal two laws
practical, honest person who is used to solving
that will allow it to pay its creditors through a
problems.”
$15 billion bond issue, but this appears to be a
With the issues he has piled up on his desk,
done deal. It will then be in a position to finance
the travails of the wine industry are not at the top
its budget deficit, which was an alarming 5.8%
of the president’s agenda. But it was significant
of GDP last year, and (it hopes) be in a position
that at the end of January 2016, the government
to reduce inflation, the long-term scourge of
announced it would be providing a subsidy of 75
the Argentinean economy. Things are still
million pesos to producers in the provinces of San
problematic (the rate is around 25% and reducing
Juan and Mendoza, mostly to finance the sale or
it will depend on the wage demands of the major
disposal of excess stock, said to be running at 200
trade unions), but they have been much worse. In
million litres, to be followed by a second tranche
1975, lest we forget, inflation was running at
of 75 million later in the year. The wine industry
1% per day.
represents around 1.3% of GDP and the PRO
This is not a report about politics or
government clearly doesn’t want to see a repeat
economics. But these two things have a direct
of the events of January 2015, when vineyard
impact on the wine industry. Outside investment
workers took to the streets of Mendoza to protest
has more or less dried up over the last decade –
at the low price of grapes, falling exports, rock
the sale of a majority share in Achával Ferrer to
bottom bulk wine rates and rampant inflation.
the Russian SPI Group in April 2011 was almost
The economic situation – better but still far
the only exception – and an over-valued peso (at
from ideal – is only one thing wineries have to
9.5 to the dollar, compared with 14 today) was
worry about at the moment. The 2016 growing
impeding exports. With the new exchange rate,
season has been one of the wettest on record
imported barrels will be more expensive, but if
(except in the north, where it has been incredibly
that encourages producers to use less new oak
dry), although a number of producers told me that
this may be a blessing in disguise.
the weather had improved in late February and
Now, foreign investors are looking at
Argentina once more, according to Nicolás
early March, promising a warmer, drier end to the
harvest. Volumes are likely to be down by as much
Page 05
as 25% on 2015, but this is not another 1998,
been for a while. But I believe that the country’s
widely regarded as one of the worst ever vintages
wines have entered a new and exciting phase.
in Argentina. “We were less good at managing
During my three week trip to write this, my
our vineyards in 1998,” says Roberto de la Mota
fourth annual report on Argentina, I tasted more
of Mendel. “This has been a cooler year, with less
good reds than ever, particularly from the 2012
disease pressure, particularly from botrytis, than
and 2013 vintages. Equally significantly, many
we saw in 1998.”
of these wines are fresher, brighter and lower in
2016 could yet produce some very good wines,
alcohol than their predecessors, with less new
but the harvest may not be finished until the
oak and sweet, so-called “caramelo” flavours. The
middle of May. The higher parts of Gualtallary,
whites, too, have improved beyond all recognition
for instance, have experienced degree-days that
in the space of five years.
are closer to Burgundy than La Mancha. “It’s the
Right now, there’s a dynamism and vitality
sort of thing that happens once in 50 years,” says
to the Argentinean wine scene that I haven’t
Edy Del Popolo of Per Se and Dominio del Plata.
seen since the 1990s. In fact, it’s even more
In one sense, however, 2016 is part of a trend.
exhilarating than it was then, thanks to the
Argentina hasn’t had a hot, dry vintage since
emergence of new regions, styles and winemakers
2012. 2013, 2014, 2015 and now 2016 have all
and a renewed sense of self-confidence. No one
been cool years, with significant amounts of rain
knows what will happen to the economy over
in the last three vintages.
the next 12 months, but the future of the wine
Argentina, in other words, is not without its
industry looks extremely bright.
problems, even if the outlook is more positive
(assuming the 2016 harvest ends well) than it has
Tim Atkin MW
a dynamism and
“ There’s
vitality to the Argentinean
wine scene that I haven’t
seen since the 1990s.
”
Page 06
Winemakers
of Argentina
Clockwise from top left: Andrea Marchiori, Walter Bressia, Pancho Morelli, Alvaro Dávalos and Raul Dávalos,
Bernardo Bossi, Gabriel Bloise, Eduardo Pulenta, Jeff Musbach
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Clockwise from top left: Marcos Fernández, Gustavo Bertagna, Hervé Joyaux Fabre, Osvaldo Domingo, Santiago Bugallo,
Mariano di Paola, Gerardo and Andrea Michelini, Lorenzo Pasquini
Page 08
Clockwise from top left: André Weinert, David Bonomi and Edy Del Popolo, Paul Hobbs, Sofía Pescarmona,
The Pulenta family, Manu Michelini, Noemi Cinzano Marone and Hans Vinding-Diers
Page 09
Clockwise from top left: Cristián Morelli, Federico Bizzotto, Francisco Tellechea, Gustavo Rearte, Daniel Pi, Mariana Paez,
Fernando Maurette
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Clockwise from top left: The Dávalos family, Thibault Lepoutre, Giuseppe Franceschini , Guillermo Barbier, Xavier Grané,
Leo Erazu, Agustín Lanus, Hubert Weber, Martín “El Gato” Kaiser
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Clockwise from top left: Alejandro Vigil, Javier Lo Forte, Rafael Racedo, Alejandro Pepa, Juan Carlos Rodríguez,
Salvador “Chavo” Figueroa, Hervé Birnie-Scott, Mariana Onofri, Mariano Quiroga
Page 12
Clockwise from top left: Adrián Manchón, José-Luis Mounier, Marita Bressia, Matías Michelini, Juan-Pablo Michelini,
Opi Sadler, José Spisso, Matías Riccitelli
Page 13
Clockwise from top left: Juan Manuel Gónzalez, Walter Carrizo, Roberto de la Mota, Thibaut Delmotte, Rafa Domingo,
Juan Roby, Marcelo Pelleriti, Maria and Armando Loson, Jorge Riccitelli
Page 14
Clockwise from top left: Lucia Romero, Manuel Gónzalez, Marcos Etchart, Nicolas Catena, Julio Viola, Susana Balbo,
Paola Pulenta, Pablo Martorell, Alejandro and Lucia Martorell, Sofía Groppo Parisi
Page 15
Clockwise from top left: Tommy Hughes, Agustín Lombroni, Santiago Achaval, Alejandro Sejanovich, Sebastian Zuccardi,
Pepe Galante, Alejandro Cánovas, Juan Prates
Page 16
10 things you
need to know
about Argentina
Argentina is the fifth biggest
and are protected by hail nets), but growing
wine-producing country in the
fine wine grapes is harder. That, in essence, is
world, with 226,388 hectares
Argentina’s challenge.
of vineyards at the most recent official
The search for cooler sites has been one of
count and an annual production of 13.36
the themes of the last 20 years and has seen
million hectolitres in 2015. Only France,
companies go higher, further south and, more
Italy, Spain and the United States make more
recently, east towards the Atlantic coast, in
vino. Argentina’s viticultural roots date back to
the case of Trapiche’s Costa & Pampa project.
the 16th century, but its modern wine industry
The Uco Valley, especially the upper parts of
is extremely vibrant and has seen dramatic
the Gualtallary sub-region, is the most highly
changes in the last 20 years.
publicised example of this, but Argentineans
Although annual per capita consumption
are exploring all four points of the compass in
is nothing like as enthusiastic as it once was –
an attempt to mitigate the effects of heat and
Argentineans knocked back a remarkable 90
long sunshine hours and produce more elegant,
litres in the early 1990s, compared with fewer
nuanced wines. New areas such as Calingasta,
than 30 litres today – the country still drinks
Chañarmuyo, Chapadmalal, Chubut, El Challao,
more than two and half times what it exports,
Jujuy, Lago Hermoso, La Pampa, Payagosta-
even if much of it is pretty basic “vino corriente”.
Salta (home to the highest vineyard in the world,
Wine is a much more important part of daily
Colomé’s Altura Máxima at 3,111 metres) and
life in Argentina than in it is Chile, Brazil or
Valle de Canota are all part of this trend.
Uruguay, or even the rest of the Southern
Hemisphere for that matter. As well as a source
Malbec is the country’s best
of pride, wine is the national beverage of choice.
grape and its global calling card.
That’s unlikely to change any time soon, however
The variety’s dominance is sometimes
popular Fernet Branca or Quilmes beer may be
exaggerated, at least in statistical terms. It’s
among younger consumers.
been higher in the past – a lot of old vineyards
were pulled out in the government-sponsored
This is one of the hottest, driest
vine pull schemes of the1980s - but today it
and most continental climates in
only represents 17% of Argentina’s 226,388
the wine world, although it hasn’t
hectares. But when it comes to sales overseas,
seemed that way in rain-affected Mendoza
it’s a different story: Malbec accounts for 51%
in 2016. Most Argentinean vineyards are
of Argentina’s exports and is regarded as the
planted in what are essentially desert conditions
country’s USP.
and, in a normal growing season, would struggle
What’s more, the Malbec that is grown in
to survive without irrigation, either from wells
Argentina is very different to what you find in
or the Andes. Dry farmed vineyards are rare,
the south-west French regions of Cahors and
but not unheard of. Growing grapes in Argentina
Bordeaux, according to scientist and economist
is comparatively easy (as long as you have water
Aldo Biondillo, who has been conducting clonal
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research into the grape, partly funded by the
with a significant percentage of Malbec include
Agencia Nacional de Promoción Científica y
Andeluna Pasionado Cuatro Cepas, Atamisque
Tecnológica, at his Tempus Alba winery in
Assemblage, Bodega Tacuil Viñas de Dávalos,
Mendoza since 2000. “The DNA of Argentinean
Bodega Vistalba Corte A, Buscado Vivo o
Malbec is completely different,” he says.
Muerte La Verdad, Caro, Catena Zapata Nicolás,
There’s no doubt that Malbec is a versatile
Cheval des Andes, De Angeles Viña 1924 Single
grape, capable of producing very different styles
Vineyard Gran Corte, Fabre Montmayou Grand
of wine, depending on where it is grown and how
Vin, Finca Flichman Dedicado, Mendel Unus,
it is made. We are starting to see clear variations
Norton Gernot Langes, Per Se Francesca, Per
in aroma, structure and flavour between Malbecs
Se La Craie, Pulenta Estate Gran Corte, Pyros
grown in Agrelo, El Cepillo, Gualtallary, Luján
Special Blend, Riglos Gran Corte, Trapiche Iscay,
de Cuyo, Maipú, Paraje Altamira, the Pedernal
Tres 14 Imperfecto, Weinert Cavas de Weinert
Valley, Río Negro, Salta, San Pablo, Vista Flores
Gran Vino, Zorzal Field Blend and Zuccardi Zeta.
and Vistalba. Decisions in the vineyard and
the winery clearly have an impact on style, but
Other red grapes have enormous
each of these places seems to give Malbec an
potential, particularly Cabernet
individual stamp.
Biondillo is working with 14 different
Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc,
Bonarda and Pinot Noir. Famous rock bands
wineries in his Circulo project, to plant the same
are often faced with a conundrum when they’re
three clones of Malbec (whittled down from 16)
playing live: at what point do they dip into their
in eight different parts of the country. “I agree
back catalogue and play their greatest hits? They
that we need to sell our terroirs, but first we need
may want to showcase new material, but the
to know what genetic material we are working
crowd is impatient to hear something they can
with, so that we are comparing apples with
sing along to.
apples, and not with pears or oranges.” Within
People like familiarity. It’s one of the reasons
a decade, Biondillo plans to have developed a
brands are so successful, and not only in music.
“scientifically based sensory map of Malbec”.
But it’s also dangerous to stick with the tried and
This is all part of the challenge to make even
tested. Innovation and an element of surprise are
more of Argentina’s signature grape. As Santiago
vital in most walks of life. Just as a shark needs
Achával of Achával Ferrer and Mater Vini puts it:
to keep moving to stay alive, so artists need to
“The next big thing after Malbec is more Malbec,
be creative.
but from different sites and older geologies.
Argentina faces a similar dilemma with
That’s why our current search has taken us to
Malbec. I’m not suggesting that the country’s
places like the Valle de Canota and El Challao.”
best variety is predictable or has run out of gas
The list of the country’s best Malbec
(see above). Indeed, you could argue that Malbec
producers is long and getting longer by the
is more exciting today than it has ever been,
vintage. My favourites, all of whom have one
with the development of new sub-regions and
or more wines in my Top 100 wines of the year,
an increasing focus on terroir. But Argentina is
include: Achaval Ferrer, Altos Las Hormigas,
sometimes regarded as a producer of Malbec and
Bodega Aleanna, Bodega Cuarto Dominio,
nothing else.
Catena, Chakana, Colomé, De Angeles, Dominio
One of the things that surprises people about
del Plata, Doña Paula, Entonado, Luca, Mendel,
Argentinean wine is its diversity. How many
Noemía, Norton, Per Se, Pulenta Estate,
other New World countries grow Aglianico,
Puramun, Riccitelli Wines, Salentein, Terrazas
Alicante Bouschet, Ancellotta, Barbera, Bonarda,
de los Andes, Tintonegro, Trapiche, Viña Cobos,
Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Caladoc,
Weinert and Zuccardi.
Carignan, Dolcetto, Grenache, Marselan, Merlot,
It’s also significant that Malbec, regarded
mostly as a blending grape in France, works
well with other varieties, most notably Cabernet
Mourvèdre, Nebbiolo, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Tannat
and Tempranillo, as well as Malbec?
Which grapes have most potential? Right
Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, in Argentina,
now, the one that gets the most attention is
too. The examples are numerous, but top cuvées
Cabernet Franc. There’s no denying that the
Page 18
variety is capable of special things in Argentina,
is Bonarda, and yet it’s the second most planted
particularly in Mendoza. If you haven’t tried
red grape in Argentina, with 19,214 hectares.
Andeluna’s Pasionado, Atamisque’s Serbal,
Even on the domestic market, the variety’s
Bodega Aleanna’s Single Vineyard Grand
image is not particularly glamorous. Over half
Enemigo, Pulenta Estate’s Gran Cabernet Franc,
of those plantings are in the scorching, desert-
Salentein’s Numina or Zorzal’s Eggo Franco, you
like conditions of eastern Mendoza, grown on
are missing out on bottlings of brilliant varietal
high trellises called “parrales” and often flood
expressions of this wonderful grape.
irrigated. Historically, Bonarda was grown for
Cabernet Franc delivers as a blending
its yield and disease-resistance, and still is to a
component, too, as we know from Bordeaux. Its
large extent, as well as its ability to add acidity
partnership with Malbec – as sensual as the best
to Malbec.
tango – is particularly special. Just get hold of
Some people mistake the grape for the
a bottle of Bodega Teho’s Zaha Malbec from the
Bonarda (Croatina) grown in Oltrepò Pavese or
Toko Vineyard, Dominio del Plata’s Benmarco
Lombardy (Bonarda Piemontese and Uva Rara).
Expresivo, Per Se La Craie, Salentein’s Gran Vu
But it turns out that the variety is not Italian,
or Tres 14 Imperfecto. But Cabernet Franc works
but French. According to ampelographers,
well with one or more of the other red Bordeaux
Bonarda is none other than Corbeau, also known
varieties, too. Good examples include, Achaval
as Charbono in California. Now that Bonarda’s
Ferrer’s Quimera, Luigi Bosca’s Finca Los Nobles
identity is clearer, perhaps its stock will rise.
Field Blend, Norton’s Gernot Langes, Mendel’s
Look out for the wines from Altos Las Hormigas,
Red Blend and Pulenta Estate’s Gran Corte.
Bodega Aleanna, Bodega Iaccarini, Cara Sur,
What Cabernet Franc doesn’t have going for
it is abundance. A mere 750 hectares, of which
only 57 hectares are planted in what is arguably
Chakana, Dante Robino, Morelli Vino de Cava
and Zuccardi.
Pinot Noir needs no such help with its
its best terroir in Gualtallary, is not going to keep
identity, but it’s fair to say that the variety is
the world supplied for long. When you compare
not normally associated with Argentina. For
plantings with those of Cabernet Sauvignon
some time, Chacra in Río Negro has been the
(15,859 hectares) and Syrah (13,029,), it starts
coruscating exception to the fairly dull fare on
to look insignificant. Syrah is not yet as exciting
offer. Yet on my last three visits to the country,
as it should be in Argentina – although the 2013
I’ve been increasingly impressed by a growing
Finca Las Moras Gran Syrah from San Juan is
number of wines from Gualtallary, Neuquén,
the most promising I’ve had yet – but Cabernet
San Pablo, Río Negro. I even had a good one
Sauvignon is well suited to the country’s range of
from La Consulta this year. Apart from Chacra,
micro-climates and there’s more of it.
noteworthy Pinots are made by Altocedro,
Paul Hobbs of Viña Cobos, who knows a
thing or two about the variety from California,
Familia Schroeder, Gen di Alma, Luca, Manos
Negras and Salentein.
thinks that it’s under-rated in Argentina.
This may be true, but Cabernet Sauvignon is
Argentina’s white wines have
increasingly bottled as a varietal wine. A list of
undergone a transformation. If
the best producers would include Achával Ferrer,
you were to ask most people which
Andeluna, Bodega Tacuil, Bressia, Casarena,
Latin American country produces the continent’s
De Angeles, Dominio del Plata, El Esteco, El
best Chardonnays, Rieslings and Sauvignon
Porvenir de Cafayate, Fabre Montmayou, Finca
Blanc, they would nominate Chile, which benefits
Decero, Finca La Anita, Kaikén, La Mascota,
from the cooling influence of the Pacific Ocean,
Lagarde, Mendel, Navarro Correas, Norton,
but Argentina is raising its game by the vintage,
Piedra Negra, Pulenta Estate, Riglos, Salentein,
producing wines that can be every bit as good.
SonVida, Terrazas de los Andes and Viña Cobos.
What’s more, it makes a more diverse range of
The grape is also the backbone of high-end wines
white wines than its Andean neighbour, using
such as Bressia Profundo, Catena Zapata Nicolás,
an extensive list of grape varieties that includes
Riglos Gran Corte and Cheval des Andes.
Albariño, Chenin Blanc, Fiano, Gewürztraminer,
The one grape that almost no one talks about
Marsanne, Muscat, Palomino, Petit Manseng,
Page 19
Pinot Gris, Roussanne, Sauvignon Gris,
described as “green Michelini” because of his
Semillon, Sylvaner, Tocai Friulano, Torrontés,
fondness for earlier-picked, lower alcohol wines.
Verdicchio and Viognier, as well as the less
First at Doña Paula, then at Finca Sophenia
exquisite delights of Pedro Giménez and
and now at Passionate Wine and Zorzal (where
Sultanina Blanca.
he works with his brothers, Juan Pablo and
Argentina’s most distinctive white grape is
Gerardo), Michelini has made a series of brilliant
Torrontés, or rather a range of Torrontés, since
Sauvignon Blancs. Look out in particular for the
this highly perfumed variety, which resulted
Zorzal Eggo Blanc de Cal.
from a natural crossing of Muscat of Alexandria
Michelini isn’t the only excellent Sauvignon
and Criolla Chica, has at least three major clones
Blanc producer, mind you. Doña Paula and
(Riojano, Mendocino and San Juanino). The
Finca Sophenia are still right up there in terms
received wisdom is that the best examples come
of quality, as is Colomé, whose Altura Máxima
from the high altitude vineyards of Salta (where
Sauvignon Blanc comes from the highest
the superior Riojano clone is predominant).
vineyard in the world, Bodega Tacuil, also in
Outstanding wines are certainly made there by
Salta, and O. Fournier, whose Alfa Crux is made
the likes of Alta Vista, Colomé, El Esteco and El
in a Graves-like style. I’d also recommend the
Porvenir de Cafayate, but you’re just as likely to
barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blancs from La
find impressive Torrontés in Mendoza, especially
Giostra del Vino, made by the Italian Giuseppe
in the Uco Valley, where Passionate Wine and
Franceschini.
Dominio del Plata both make distinctive styles,
Riesling is another unlikely success story
the first with skin contact, the second with barrel
in Argentina. There’s not a whole lot of it in
fermentation.
the ground (111 hectares to be precise), but
Plantings of Torrontés dwarf those of other
what’s planted has real potential, especially in
premium white grapes. The three clones account
Gualtallary (Doña Paula), Las Compuertas (Luigi
for 10,632 of Argentina’s 226, 338 hectares
Bosca) and Chapadmalal (Trapiche’s Costa &
under vine. But Chardonnay (6,352 hectares)
Pampa), mostly made in a dry style.
is growing in importance and quality. Not so
The last member of this trio is the most
long ago, Argentinean Chardonnay looked
recent, as well as the most exciting site for
to California rather than Burgundy for its
Riesling and other aromatic varieties such
inspiration. The results were drinkable, but
as Albariño and Gewürztraminer. It’s an
rarely exciting. The pioneering work or Catena in
unirrigated estate situated five kilometres from
the higher reaches of the Uco Valley (Gualtallary)
the Atlantic on what was previously a diary farm.
has changed all that. The limestone soils of
Even the Uruguayans don’t grow grapes this
Catena’s Adrianna Vineyard are responsible
close to the ocean, but the early indications are
for two of the country’s (and South America’s)
that Trapiche is on to a winner.
best Chardonnays: White Stones and White
And what of Argentina’s other whites?
Bones. Further Uco Valley producers to look out
Well, there are a handful of decent Viogniers
for are Andeluna, Atamisque, Chakana, Doña
(Alamos, DiamAndes, Escorihuela Gascón and
Paula, Luca, Navarro Correas, Norton, Revolver,
Lagarde), a Gewürztraminer or two (Rutini and
Riccitelli Wines, Rutini, Salentein Terrazas de
Mar & Pampa) and at least one very good Pinot
los Andes, Trapiche and Zuccardi, while Bodega
Gris (Piedra Negra), but the variety with the
del Río Elorza (Río Negro), El Porvenir de
greatest promise is Semillon, just as it is in South
Cafayate (Cafayate) and Pulenta Estate (Agrelo)
Africa. Plantings are reasonably sizeable at 799
make very good Chardonnays in other regions.
hectares, and Marcelo Miras, Passionate Wine,
If great Chardonnay was rare in Argentina
even a decade ago, top Sauvignon Blanc was
almost an oxymoron. The country’s dry,
Riccitelli Wines and especially Mendel make
exciting interpretations of the grape.
White blends are under-represented in
continental climate was considered too hot to
Argentina, especially at the top end. Producers
produce wines with varietal typicity. One person
seem wary to step out of well-defined stylistic
has transformed the image of Sauvignon Blanc
varietal boxes, which is a shame. But this is
in Argentina: Matías Michelini, sometimes
changing. A handful of wineries are combining
Page 20
varieties to good effect, most notably Blanchard
At its lowest point, the Uco is 1,000
y Lurton, Bodega Underground, Bressia,
metres in altitude; at its highest (at least as
Dominio del Plata, La Giostra del Vino, Finca
far as viticulture in concerned) around 1,600
Agostino, Morelli Vino de Cava, Mythic Estate,
metres. The further north you go, the higher
Monofri Wines, Passionate Wine and Piedra
the vineyards and the cooler the resulting
Negra.
temperatures. Nonetheless, this is a region
where dry farming is very rare indeed. Without
The Uco Valley has established
water from wells or the Tunuyán or Las Tunas
itself as one of the New World’s
rivers, vines would struggle to survive, such is
greatest wine regions. If you’d visited in the
the intensity of the sunlight. Diurnal variation
early 1990s, the idea that this isolated corner of
(up to 20°C in summer and 18°C in winter) helps
Mendoza province would one day be regarded
to mitigate the dry heat (and preserve acidity in
as the source of the majority of Argentina’s best
the grapes) but this is still an extreme region.
reds would have been fanciful. Plantings had
Not so long ago, the main focus in the
dwindled to a nadir of only 6,000 hectares as
Uco was on altitude and, to a lesser degree,
growers, incentivised by government vine pull
aspect. But now it’s on soil type, water holding
schemes, uprooted vineyards and replaced them
capacity and drainage. This growing interest in
with fruit and veg. In the space of a decade, the
terroir is reflected in the number of soil pits (or
town of La Consulta, the location of many of the
“calicatas”) that are regularly dug all over the
Uco’s oldest plantings, lost 80% of its vines.
region, as well as in the recent creation of Paraje
Today, the valley today is almost
Altamira, the country’s first GI (Geographical
unrecognisable. The Andes are still there,
Indication), based on a rigorous study by
providing one of the wine world’s most dramatic
Professor Ricardo Pérez Valenzuela.
backdrops, but almost everything else has
The valley is divided into three sub-regions,
changed. There are more vineyards (plantings
following political and geographical boundaries
have more than quadrupled to 27,600 hectares),
rather than differences in terroir. From north
over 100 brands and 20 wineries. The Uco has
to south, these are Tupungato, Tunuyán and
also become a tourist and “lifestyle” destination,
San Carlos. Very few wineries use these terms
complete with four real estate projects and its own
on their labels these days. They are far more
golf course. It has gone from backwater to boom
likely to talk about smaller viticultural zones
town, attracting investors from sources as diverse
within the Uco, such as Chacayes, El Cepillo,
as France, Russia, Spain and the United States.
Gualtallary, La Consulta, Los Arboles, Paraje
What’s even more remarkable is the wine
quality that is emerging from the Uco, although
Altamira, San Pablo and Vista Flores.
Gualtallary is the most recently developed
the potential has always been there. The first
of these, and yet it’s arguably the one with the
vineyards were planted as long ago as the 1920s
most potential, having the both the highest
by Italian and Spanish immigrants and, in some
altitudes and the greatest concentration of
cases, are still producing impressive wines. The
limestone. It’s equally well suited to whites – as
major Argentinean wineries valued the fruit they
the Chardonnays from Catena and Luca, the
produced for its colour, perfume and acidity, but
Sauvignon Blancs from Zorzal and Passionate
very few of the resulting wines were stand-alone
Wine and the Riesling from Doña Paula have
bottlings.
demonstrated – as it is to reds, especially
Although generally regarded as a single
Malbec and Cabernet Franc, but also Pinot
homogenous region, the Uco is surprisingly
Noir. Additional producers to look out for are
diverse. It is only 43 miles in length and
Altos Las Hormigas, Bodega Aleanna, Gen de
25 in width, yet the valley’s vineyards vary
Alma, Finca Ambrosía, Navarro Correas, Per
considerably. The valley is bounded on four sides
Se, Revolver, Riglos, Tres 14, Trapiche, and
- by desert in the south, the Andes in the west,
Zuccardi.
by gorges and dry riverbeds in the east and by a
But the Uco isn’t only about Gualtallary.
series of hills, or “cerillos” to the north – adding
Paraje Altamira, as that GI designation makes
to its sense of isolation.
clear, is making many of the Uco’s best reds at
Page 21
the moment, including Zuccardi’s Piedra Infinita
wine regions are often divided, geographically
and Aluvional, Mendel’s Finca Remota, Altos Las
rather than stylistically it must be said, into
Hormigas’ Appellation Altamira Malbec, Bodega
three groups: the northwest (Salta, Catamarca
Teho Zaha Malbec from the Toko Vineyard and
and La Rioja), Cuyo (Mendoza and San Juan)
Achával Ferrer’s Finca Altamira, and is arguably
and Patagonia (Neuquén and Río Negro). This
the valley’s equivalent of a Grand Cru. Add the
is a crude, but still useful, way of understanding
wines from La Consulta, where the vines tend
the country.
to be older, and a handful from Vista Flores and
Could any of these areas challenge Mendoza’s
Los Arboles and you have a valley with at least
supremacy in the coming decades? Definitely
five distinct, high-quality sub-zones.
not in terms of quantity, but there are signs that
Most exciting of all is that the best is yet to
the quality of what is emerging from some of
come. The average age of the Uco’s vineyards
these new (or recently rediscovered) areas could
is young – the result of that vine pull as well as
match some of the best wines in Mendoza. Four
the recent boom in plantings – and some of the
of them are particularly promising: Calingasta,
finest terroirs may still be undiscovered. But
Chapadmalal, Payogasta-Salta and the Pedernal
that’s in the future. What the valley is producing
Valley, each of which has already produced some
right now has radically changed the profile of
excellent wines.
Argentinean wine.
Calingasta is an old vine-growing region
in one sense. Some of the vines in Barreal, its
There’s life beyond Mendoza. It’s
most interesting sub-region, were planted in
hard to think of another country where
the 1920s, grown at 1,500 metres of altitude on
a single region dominates the wine
pergola trellising and located even closer to the
industry the way Mendoza does in Argentina.
Andes than the Uco Valley on the western side
Buenos Aires may be the nation’s political,
of the “precordillera” (foothills) of this majestic
economic and artistic hub, but Mendoza is its
mountain range. “It’s a really old area,” says
undisputed wine capital, with the wineries, the
Sebastián Zuccardi, who is one of the partners in
vineyards and the research institutions to prove
an exciting new venture called Cara Sur, making
it. A quick glance at the statistics confirms this.
wines from Bonarda, Criolla and Moscatel Tinto.
Out of 226,388 hectares under vine, 160,983 are
“Historically, the grapes were used to make
in Mendoza, equivalent to 71%. Not even Rioja,
cheap wines, but the potential is huge here.”
which bestrides the Spanish wine scene, can
match it.
Mendoza’s vineyards are far from uniform.
If Calingasta is a traditional region,
Chapadmalal is all about the shock of the new.
There were no vineyards planted here until
There are significant differences between the
Trapiche converted an old cattle farm situated
sub-zones of Luján de Cuyo (Perdriel, Agrelo
a few miles from the Atlantic to the south of
and Ugarteche), the traditional heart of the
Buenos Aires. They started with 10 hectares
Argentinean wine business, let alone the
of Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and
scorching flatlands of eastern Mendoza and the
Gewürztraminer and have now added another
cooler, higher, Andean-influenced Uco Valley,
15 hectares, extending the line up of grapes
whose northern end in particular is producing
to include Albariño, a first for Argentina. The
some of the most elegant whites and reds in
vineyards are dry farmed (not surprising giving
the country. And yet there is a very real sense
the comparatively wet climate) and after six
in which Mendoza, to many consumers, is
years in the ground are producing some of the
Argentinean wine.
country’s most refined white wines under the
That’s only part of the picture, however.
The other 29% of this large varied winemaking
expert eye of chief winemaker, Daniel Pi.
I’m also increasingly impressed by the
country adds welcome complexity to the tableau.
wines emerging from the Pedernal Valley in San
The latitude of Argentina’s vineyards stretches
Juan, a high, windy, isolated spot with altitudes
from 22° to 42° latitude, or to put it another way,
that vary between 1,250 and 1,500 metres.
from Jujuy in the north to Chubut in the south, a
Considerably cooler than the majority of San
span that is almost as long as Chile’s. Argentina’s
Juan’s vineyards, with silex and limestone soils,
Page 22
it has enormous potential. There are only 800
Agustín Lanus (Altos Terruños), Mario Malatto
hectares planted here, most of them owned by
(Filus), Juan Pablo Michelini (Zorzal and 2km),
Las Moras, Pyros and growers who sell their
Cristian Moor and Teresita Barrio (Moor-
wines to other wineries, but there are surely
Barrio), Karim Mussi (Altocedro), Mariana
more to come.
Onofri (Onofri Wines), Lorenzo Pasquini
Every bit as exciting is Colomé’s
(Cheval des Andes), Matiás Prieto (Entre Vero),
biodynamically farmed Altura Máxima vineyard
Mariano Quiroga (El Porvenir de Cafayate),
in Payogasta-Salta: 25 hectares of Malbec, Pinot
Gaspar Rastrilla (Casa de Uco), Gustavo Rearte
Noir and Sauvignon Blanc planted at a light-
(Achával Ferrer), Matías Riccitelli (Riccitelli
headed 3,111 metres above sea level, making
Wines) and Sebastián Zuccardi (Zuccardi). The
it the highest vineyard in the world. Growing
future of Argentinean wine is in excellent hands.
grapes in such an isolated spot, two and half
hours’ drive from the main Colomé winery
Argentina is increasingly focused
(which is pretty secluded itself), is extremely
on expressing its vineyards - and
tricky, with no sunlight until 10 am because of
shadows from the surrounding peaks.
This quartet of regions has added
its vintages. It’s hard to wander into a
vineyard these days without stumbling on a soil
pit, or “calicata”, dug to show what lies beneath
considerably to the diversity of Argentina’s wine
the surface in the so-called root zone. Even ten
scene. The exciting thing is that I could have
years ago, these were very rare in Argentina,
chosen another half a dozen up- and-coming
but no one plants a vineyard these days without
sites. And with more adventurous winemakers
thinking about soils and geology. The work
constantly searching for new and interesting
of viticulturists such as Pedro Marchevsky
locations, there are surely plenty more to be
(Humberto Canale), Martín Kaiser (Doña Paula),
discovered. Or rediscovered.
Edy del Popolo (Dominio del Plata and Per Se),
Mendoza will always be the centre of the
Alejandro Sejanovich (Casarena, Tintonegro,
Argentinean wine industry, but as the emphasis
Manos Negras and Bodega Teho), Luis Reginato
shifts from technique to terroir – as evidenced
(Catena and Chaman) and the Chilean Pedro
by the number of soil pits or “calicatas” that
Parra (Chakana and Altos Las Hormigas) has
litter the country’s vineyards – so Argentina will
been vital in this respect.
continue to experiment and explore new areas. I
can’t wait to taste the results.
Not so long ago, the main focus was on
altitude – that desire to temper heat again – but
now it is on soil type, water holding capacity
Young winemakers are having
and drainage. The greater understanding of the
a growing impact. It may be a sign
influence of calcium carbonate and limestone
that I’m getting old, but the average age
in wine flavour (although this is a controversial
of the country’s oenologists seems to be falling.
subject, as some argue that both have no taste)
The extreme example is Manuel Michelini, son of
and structure has been particularly beneficial to
winemakers Gerardo and Andrea Michelini and
Argentina, bringing what I identify as a soil-
the man behind Plop!, who is all of 20, but there
derived freshness to many of the top wines,
are more recently qualified people working in the
especially from Alta Mira and Gualtallary. There
industry that any time in the last 25 years, a sure
are almost certainly great vineyard locations
sign that people see a future in wine once more.
that have not yet been discovered in Argentina,
I’ve probably missed a few of the leading
but Argentineans are making more of what they
names, but look out for the wines from Lucas
Amoretti (Entonado), Agostina Astegiano
have than ever thanks to better viticulture.
Argentina doesn’t have an appellation
(Avarizza), German Berra (Finca Flichman),
system. Or, if it does, this tends to be based on
Gabriel Bloise (Chakana), Agustín Lombroni
political or geographical boundaries rather than
(Bodega del Río Elorza), Santiago Mayorga
soil types. This is further complicated by the
(Cadus), Raul Dávalos (Bodega Tacuil), Leo
fact that some would-be appellations – Cafayate,
Erazu (Altos Las Hormigas), Marcos Fernández
Perdriel and Gualtallary – are registered as
(Doña Paula), Fernando Gabriel (El Relator),
brand names. But the establishment of Paraje
Page 23
Altamira as a GI (Geographical Indication)
argues that Argentina generally swings between
three years ago as, based on the work of the
warm and dry vintages (La Niña-affected) and
academic Professor Ricardo Pérez Valenzuela
cool and wet ones (El Niño-affected). The former
and a rigorous study of soil types, is a first step
were 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004,
towards something more meaningful. Could
2006 and 2012, while the latter include 1998,
Argentina develop a Burgundian-style system
2001, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014,
of communes and recognised vineyard sites?
2015 and now 2016. In other words, the last hot
For now, it’s some way off, but it’s a tantalising
vintage was in 2012.
prospect.
One important feature of vineyard
The economy is finally getting
expression, as opposed to the desire to correct
back on track. A year ago in these
and manipulate wines in the cellar, is vintage
pages I argued that Argentina needed
variation. It’s tricky to generalise about such a
better and less corrupt politicians to run its
large wine country, but vintage summaries still
finances and institutions. I also suggested
have a degree of validity. What we can say is that
that Mauricio Macri, then the mayor Buenos
2013, 2014, 2015 and the on-going and very late
Aires but considered an outside bet for the
2016 harvests have been cooler than normal.
presidency, sounded like a promising and
The temptation is to regard these as “inferior”
competent potential successor to Cristina
to hotter recent years like 2012, but that is not
Fernández de Kirchner. Well, it happened on
necessarily so. 2015 was certainly tricky, and
November 23rd last year. It’s too early to say for
2016 is proving no less so, but 2013 and 2014
certain whether Macri’s victory marks what the
in particular have produced some outstanding
Financial Times called “the beginning of a new
wines with appealing freshness and balance.
era” for Argentina, but that does seem to be the
“We really love cool vintages,” says Edy Del
case. Thanks to the devaluation of the peso –
Popolo of Per Se and Dominio del Plata, “because
necessary and brave – most wineries are looking
they provide better precision: more frank, pure
to the future with renewed confidence. The
and delineated wines with more authenticity
industry needs outside investment, dollars and a
and natural acidity and less alcohol. To make
stable economic base. And after a decade in the
profound wines, the sites are key. Expressing
doldrums, things are finally looking up.
the different vintages is part of that.” Del Popolo
Page 24
Map of
Argentina’s
growing regions
Page 25
A short guide
to Argentina’s
growing regions
Argentina’s vineyards stretch from 22° to 42°
latitude. Most are planted within sight of the
Andes, although altitudes vary considerably,
from 250m to just over 3,100m. Here are the
most important details about each of the wine
regions. Grape varieties of particular interest are
highlighted in bold.
Catamarca
Vineyard area: 2,651 hectares
Main varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec,
Syrah, Torrontés
In a nutshell: Isolated, mountainous and generally
less well developed, wine-wise than neighbouring
Salta. The centre of the wine industry is the
Fiambala Valley, but this is one Argentina’s least
well-visited regions. Recent plantings in the Santa
Maria district by Michel Torino are promising.
La Pampa
La Rioja
Main varieties: Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Chardonnay, Malbec, Syrah, Tannat, Torrontés
In a nutshell: The site of Argentina’s first vineyards.
Some good wines here – the Fairtrade and organic
projects are particularly interesting – while the La
Vineyard area: 216 hectares
Riojana co-operative is one of the country’s best.
Main varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet
An area with as yet unrealised potential, although
Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Viognier
the wines from Valle de la Puerta are worth looking
In a nutshell: Mostly known for the production
out for, as are those from Chañarmuyo.
of a single winery (Bodega del Desierto), this
is a new, isolated vineyard area that has been
making wine since 2004. The initial results are
promising, made with help from American guru,
Paul Hobbs.
Mendoza
Vineyard area: 160,983 hectares (including San
Rafael and the Uco Valley)
Main varieties: Bonarda, Cabernet Franc,
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Chenin,
Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon
Blanc, Syrah, Tempranillo, Tocai Friulano,
Torrontés, Semillon, Viognier
In a nutshell: The hub of the Argentinean wine
industry. A large and varied area that produces
most of the country’s best wines. Maipú, East
Mendoza and San Rafael tend to produce cheaper
styles than the best sub-regions: traditional
Luján de Cuyo (which includes Agrelo, Perdriel,
Lunlunta, Ugarteche and Vistalba) and the cooler,
higher altitude Uco Valley (see separate entry).
Page 26
framed by a dry, cactus-strewn desert and
spectacular scenery. Some increasingly good
red blends here, as well as varietal Malbecs
and Tannats. Still best known for its Torrontés
Riojano, but plantings are now shared equally
between reds and white. Increasingly impressive.
San Juan
Main varieties: Bonarda, Cabernet Franc,
Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec,
Merlot, Moscatel, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah,
Torrontés, Ugni Blanc, Viognier
In a nutshell: A large, mostly hot area that is
second only to Mendoza in size. Produces a lot
of basic, quaffing wine, much of destined for
Neuquén
Main varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon,
Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir,
Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon
domestic consumption, but more recent plantings
in the higher, cooler Pedernal and Calingasta
Valleys are spectacularly good. Makes some of
Argentina’s best Syrahs.
In a nutshell: Comparatively new, low-lying
Tucumán
(for Argentina) area created thanks to a large
Vineyard area: 94 hectares
irrigation dam a decade or so ago. Quality is good
Main varieties: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon,
rather than spectacular, as this is quite a warm
Malbec, Tannat, Torrontés, Syrah
area. But the wines are improving with every year,
In a nutshell: Best known for its share of the
as the vines get older. The red, iron-rich soils of
Calchaquí Valley (with neighbouring Catamarca
Añelo are very promising, especially for Pinot
and Salta). Plantings are comparatively small and
Noir of all things.
are mostly located in the sparsely populated Tafí
del Valle department. High altitude viticulture
Río Negro
Main varieties: Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot,
(starting at 1,800m) is the theme here in a region
that has real promise.
Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon,
Uco Valley
Ugni Blanc
In a nutshell: The oldest vine-growing region in
Main varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet
Patagonia and the source of most of its best wines,
Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Malbec, Merlot,
with greater freshness and longevity than those of
Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Tempranillo
Neuquén to the west. Marked diurnal temperature
In a nutshell: . Currently the most exciting region
swings and old vines make this an area to watch
in Argentina, thanks to a combination of foreign
for everything from Pinot Noir to Malbec, via
investment, high altitudes, the proximity of
Merlot and Riesling.
the Andes, old vines (especially in La Consulta)
and new plantings in Gualtallary. The potential
Salta
Main varieties: Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon,
Chardonnay, Chenin, Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir,
Tannat, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Torrontés
In a nutshell: Contains the highest vineyards
in the world (Altúra Maxima is at 3,111 metres),
of Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and Malbec
(particularly if they are grown on limestone)
is enormous, especially as some of the new
vineyards mature. Look out for sub-regional
wines from recently delimited Paraje Altamira,
as well as Chacayes, Gualtallary, La Consulta,
San Pablo and Vista Flores
Page 27
The podium
Winemaker of the Year
Sebastián Zuccardi
Young Winemaker of the Year
Matías Riccitelli
Winemaking Legend
Pepe Galante
Red Wine of the Year
2013 Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco, Paraje Altamira
White Wine of the Year
2013 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Bones Chardonnay,
Uco Valley
Sparkling Wine of the Year
2006 Cruzat Gran Millésime, Mendoza
Red Wine Discovery of the Year
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte La Verdad, Gualtallary
White Wine Discovery of the Year
2014 Blanchard y Lurton, Uco Valley
Page 28
The 2016
Argentinean top 100
A personal selection of the country’s best wines
MALBECS
t
Bes
2013 Achaval Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec, Uco Valley
2013 Achaval Ferrer Finca Bella Vista Malbec, Perdriel
2013 Achaval Ferrer Temporis Malbec, Mendoza
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Piedras, Gualtallary
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation, Paraje Altamira
2013 Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Malbec, Mendoza
2014 Bodega Cuarto Dominio Chento Single Lot Malbec, Mendoza
2013 Casa de Uco Malbec, Vista Flores
2013 Catena Fortuna Terrae Malbec, Uco Valley
2013 Catena Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec, Uco Valley
2014 Chakana Ayni Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Colomé Altura Máxima Malbec, Salta
2013 Colomé Auténtico Malbec, Salta
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Malbec, Vistalba
2013 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Limited Edition Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2012 Doña Paula Alluvia Parcel Malbec Bush Vines, Gualtallary
2012 Doña Paula Selección de Bodega Malbec, Mendoza
2012 Entonado Malbec, Luján de Cuyo
2013 Luca Nico by Luca High G Lot Malbec, Gualtallary
2013 Mendel Finca Remota Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Noemía Malbec, Río Negro
2012 Norton Lote A112 Malbec, Agrelo
2014 Per Se Volare del Camino Malbec, Gualtallary
2013 Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Malbec, Gualtallary
2013 Puramun Malbec Reserva, Mendoza
2014 Riccitelli Wines República del Malbec, Vistalba
2014 Salentein, Single Vineyard Malbec Plot No. 21, Uco Valley
2011 Terrazas de los Andes Single Parcel Los Castañoas Malbec, Las Compuertas
2013 Tintonegro Finca La Escuela Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Piedra Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Tintonegro 1955 Vineyard Malbec, La Consulta
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Cristina y Bibiana Coletto, Tupungato
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Ambrosía, Gualtallary
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Orellana de Escobar, La Consulta
2013 Viña Cobos Malbec, Perdriel
1994 Weinert Estrella Malbec, Luján de Cuyo
2013 Zuccardi Aluvional Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Zuccardi Aluvional Malbec, La Consulta
2013 Zuccardi Aluvional Malbec, Gualtallary
2015 Zuccardi Concreto Malbec, Paraje Altamira
2013 Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco, Paraje Altamira
2013 Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita, Paraje Altamira
Page 29
RED BLENDS
t
s
e
B
2013 Andeluna Pasionado Cuatro Cepas, Tupungato
2011 Atamisque Assemblage, Uco Valley
2015 Bodega Tacuil Viñas de Dávalos, Molinos
2013 Bodega Vistalba Corte A, Vistalba
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte La Verdad, Gualtallary
2012 Casa Bianchi Enzo Bianchi, San Rafael
2013 Caro, Mendoza
2011 Catena Zapata Nicolás, Mendoza
2013 Cheval des Andes, Mendoza
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Corte, Vistalba
2012 Fabre Montmayou Grand Vin, Mendoza
2013 Finca Flichman Dedicado, Tupungato
2013 Mendel Unus, Mendoza
2010 Norton Gernot Langes, Mendoza
2014 Per Se Francesca, Gualtallary
2014 Per Se La Craie, Gualtallary
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Corte, Mendoza
2012 Pyros Special Blend, Pedernal
2013 Riglos Gran Corte, Tupungato
2011 Trapiche Iscay, Mendoza
2013 Trapiche Iscay Syrah/Viognier, Uco Valley
2013 Tres 14 Imperfecto, Gualtallary
1983 Weinert Cavas de Weinert Gran Vino, Luján de Cuyo
2013 Zorzal Field Blend, Gualtallary
2012 Zuccardi Zeta, Uco Valley
OTHER REDS
t
Bes
2014 Altocedro Pinot Noir, La Consulta
2012 Bodega Aleanna El Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard
Cabernet Franc, Gualtallary
2013 Casarena Lauren’s Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Agrelo
2014 Catena Appellation Cabernet Sauvignon, Agrelo
2013 Chacra Treinta y Dos Pinot Noir, Río Negro
2015 Chacra Sin Azufre Pinot Noir, Río Negro
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran
Cabernet Sauvignon, Vistalba
2013 Finca Las Moras Gran Syrah, San Juan
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Tannat, Cafayate
2012 José-Luis Mounier Laguna Brava Tannat Selected Reserve, Cafayate
2013 La Mascota Gran Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon, Paraje Altamira
2013 Luca Nico de Luca High G Lot Pinot Noir, Gualtallary
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Franc, Agrelo
2013 Riglos Gran Cabernet Sauvignon, Tupungato
2013 SonVida Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendoza
2013 Viña Cobos Marchiori Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Perdriel
1994 Weinert Estrella Cabernet Sauvignon, Luján de Cuyo
2015 Zorzal Eggo Franco, Gualtallary
2013 Zuccardi Finca Los Membrillos Cabernet Sauvignon, La Consulta
2014 Zuccardi Emma Zuccardi Bonarda, Paraje Altamira
Page 30
WHITE AND SPARKLING
t
s
e
B
2014 Blanchard y Lurton, Uco Valley
2013 Bressia Lágrima Canela, Uco Valley
2013 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Bones Chardonnay, Uco Valley
2013 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay, Uco Valley
2015 Colomé Altura Máxima Sauvignon Blanc, Salta
2006 Cruzat Gran Millésime, Mendoza
2015 Dominio del Plata White Blend, Uco Valley
2014 La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Sauvignon Blanc, Mendoza
2014 La Giostra del Vino Bacán Sauvignon Blanc Reserva, Vista Flores
2015 Mendel Semillon, Paraje Altamira
2014 Piedra Negra Gran Lurton, Uco Valley
2013 Salentein Single Vineyard Plot 2 Chardonnay, Uco Valley
2015 Riccitelli Wines Old Vines Semillon, Patagonia
Page 31
A classification
of Argentina’s
best producers
FIRST GROWTHS
Achával Ferrer
Pulenta Estate
Altos Las Hormigas
Riglos
Catena Zapata
Salentein
Colomé
Tintonegro
De Angeles
Trapiche
Doña Paula
Viña Cobos
Mendel
Zuccardi
Per Se
SECOND GROWTHS
Bodega Aleanna
Fabre Montmayou
Bodega Tacuil
Luca
Bodega Vistalba
Noemía
Bressia
Norton
Chacra
Riccitelli Wines
Cheval des Andes
Weinert
Cruzat
Zorzal
Dominio del Plata
THIRD GROWTHS
Andeluna
La Giostra del Vino
Atamisque
La Mascota
Bodega Teho
Navarro Correas
Caro
Piedra Negra
Casa Bianchi
Rutini
Casarena
Terrazas de los Andes
Chakana
Tres 14
Cuarto Dominio
FOURTH GROWTHS
Alta Vista
Gen de Alma
Buscado
Mater Vini
Corazón del Sol
Passionate Wine
El Esteco
Puramun
El Porvenir de Cafayate
Pyros
Finca Ambrosía
SonVida
Finca Flichman
Viñalba
Fuego Bodega
Page 32
FIFTH GROWTHS
Amalaya
Manos Negras
DiamAndes de Uco
Marcelo Miras
Domaine Bousquet
Moor-Barrio
Finca Decero
O Fournier
Finca La Escarcha
San Pedro de Yacochuya
Finca Sophenia
Tempus Alba
José-Luis Mounier
Viña Vida
Lagarde
CRUS BOURGEOIS
Abremundos
Huentala Wines
Alpamanta
Humberto Canale
Altocedro
Kaikén
Altos Terruños
La Revancha
Altupalka
Leo Borsi
Anko
Los Toneles
Antucura
Luigi Bosca
Avarizza
Mapema
Blanchard y Lurton
Marcelo Pelleriti
Bodega del Desierto
Mariano di Paola
Bodega del Río Elorza
Mariflor
Bodega Elvira Calle
Melipal
Cadus
Montechez
Cara Sur
Monteviejo
Casa de Uco
Morelli Vino de Cava
Chaman
Mosquita Muerta
Chandon
Mundo Revès
Clos de los Siete
Mythic Vineyards
Cuvelier de los Andes
Nieto Senetiner
Deumayen
Ojo de Agua
Entonado
Onofri Wines
El Relator
Paimán
Entre Vero
Pascual Toso
Escorihuela Gascón
Piattelli
Etchart
Plop!
Familia Cassone
Proemio Wines
Familia Schroeder
Pucará
Filus Bodega y Viñedos
Revolver
Finca Agostino
Trivento
Fin del Mundo
Tukma
Fincas Don Martino
Underground
Finca La Anita
Vaglio
Finca Las Moras
Vallisto
Finca Quara
Ver Sacrum
Fernando Dupont
Vicentin
Giménez Rilli
Viña Alicia
Hacienda del Plata
Viña Las Perdices
Huarpe Wines
Page 33
Some notes about scoring
and my 2016 classification
The wines for this report were tasted in Argentina
variations and stylistic nuances. I hope I am a
over a period of three weeks in January and
sufficiently experienced taster to judge a wine for
February 2016. Around two-thirds of these
what it is, warts, beauty spots and all.
were sampled at individual wineries, while the
This report runs to more than 50,000 words.
rest were assessed at bespoke sighted tastings
Rather than provide a tasting note for every one of
organised by Winifera and Wines of Argentina
the 1,093 wines I sampled, I have concentrated on
in Mendoza and Buenos Aires, sometimes in the
the 688 brands that scored 90 points or more. It
presence of a representative from the bodega in
is a measure of the improvements in Argentinean
question. Almost all of the wines I assessed were
wine that there were 161 of these in my first
bottled, but there were a few wines that I tasted as
annual report and nearly four times that number
(nearly) finished samples from tank or barrel.
here. Despite some tricky recent vintages,
When I taste at a winery, I am more than
happy to discuss the wines (but not my final
Argentina’s wines are getting better and better.
I’ve suggested a drinking window for each
score or tasting note) with the person who made
wine and, where appropriate, provided its varietal
them. Some critics would argue that this exerts
make up.
an influence on the taster, but I see it differently.
Talking to winemakers and viticulturists is the
Have a look at the example below to see how
I’ve organised the information for each wine:
best way to understand local conditions, vintage
score
Wine name
Red
White
Rosé
Sparkling
Sweet
Alcohol level, Region
Short tasting note, drinking window
My 2016 Classification
This is my second attempt to classify Argentina’s
Dominio, Fuego Bodega, Gen de Alma, Mater
best producers, an annual exercise that has
Vini, Moor-Barrio, Per Se, Pyros, Riccitelli
stimulated some debate, as well as criticism
Wines, SonVida, Tintonegro and Tres 14 – but
in some quarters. This is very loosely based
I think that’s irrelevant. It’s what’s in the glass
on the 1855 Bordeaux Classification, with five
that counts. Time may prove me wrong, but I
different bands (first, second, third, fourth and
think that these wineries will help to define the
fifth growths) and a larger group of so-called
Argentinean wine scene over the next quarter of
Crus Bourgeois. Unlike the Bordeaux system,
a century.
which rated the properties according to market
My classification has changed significantly
price, my only criterion is quality. This year, I
since last year. Nineteen of my 75 classed
have increased the number of classified growths
growths are new this year – Bodega Vistalba,
to 75 to reflect what I see as the dynamism and
Bodega Tacuil, Casa Bianchi, Caro, Dominio del
excitement of the Argentinean wine scene, and
Plata, Finca Ambrosía, Finca La Escarcha, La
boosted the crus bourgeois to 75, too.
Mascota, Finca Sophenia, José-Luis Mounier,
My 2016 classification is a snapshot of the
Luca, Marcelo Miras, Moor-Barrio, Navarro
Argentinean wine industry and is very much my
Correas, Puramun, Pyros, SonVida, Tempus
opinion. Mindful that a critic should attempt
Alba, and Weinert – while four wineries have
to reward talent, irrespective of a long track
been promoted to first growth status (Per Se,
record in some cases, I have chosen my favourite
Pulenta Estate, Tintonegro, and Trapiche). It’s all
producers, rather than parroted the opinions
change among the 75 crus bourgeois, too, where
of others. Some of my classified producers have
there are 43 new names, several of which will
made only a handful of vintages or fewer –
surely be promoted next year.
Buscado, Casa de Uco, Corazón del Sol, Cuarto
Page 34
Tasting notes
Reds
98
98
2013 Colomé Altura Máxima Malbec
Salta 14.5%
You’d expect the highest vineyard in the world to produce something special, and that’s
definitely the case here. Picked at the end of April, this high altitude Malbec has matched up
to the abundant promise of its first vintage in 2012. Powerfully aromatic and focused, it’s
dense, profound and textured, packed with crunchy, spicy blackberry and black cherry fruit
and destined for further development in bottle.2017-26
2013 Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco
Paraje Altamira 15%
Made with slightly older vines than the Piedra Infinita bottling, this is another remarkable
wine from the Zuccardi team. Dark, dense and powerful, with enormous fruit weight, very
little oak influence, compact, but finely judged tannins and a bright, mineral-edged finish.
Sappy, complex and complete. 2018-28
97
2013 Achával Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec
97
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Gualtallary Piedras
97
2013 Zuccardi Aluvional Malbec
97
2013 Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
The Achaval Ferrer vineyard is made up of five blocks, amounting to 7 hectares in total that
were planted in 1925. The result is the freshest and finest red in the winery’s stellar line-up.
Floral, scented and enticing, this is an effortlessly pure, complex Malbec with stylish oak and
layer after layer of flavour supported by chalky minerality. 2017-26
Gualtallary 14.2%
There’s a huge difference between Altos’ two Gualtallary bottlings in 2014, so make sure you
choose this one. Focused, intense and typically chalky, this is polished and well balanced
with intense blackberry and orange peel notes, understated oak and a finish that lingers for
over a minute on the palate. Essence of the upper Uco Valley. 2017-26
Paraje Altamira 14.5% A wine that encapsulates the exciting changes that have taken place at Zuccardi (and in
Argentina) over the last decade, this is a world-class red from an exceptional, limestoneinfluenced site. Focused, floral and nuanced, with notes of wild herbs, red and black fruits,
fine tannins and pithy acidity. 2017-26
Paraje Altamira 15% A selection of the best, limestone-rich spots in the Zuccardis’ Paraje Altamira vineyards, this
is as good as it gets from Argentina right now. Inky, concentrated, yet refreshing, with very
little oak influence but masses of dark, spicy, aromatic fruit weight. Closed and brooding, but
with the focus and balance to unfurl its complexity in bottle. 2018-27
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96
96
96
96
96
96
2013 Achával Ferrer Finca Bella Vista Malbec
Perdriel 14%
The vines around the winery in Perdriel are mostly over 100 years old and it always shows
in the density of this varietal Malbec. The cooler vintage seems to give the wine a little more
purity and definition in 2013. Liquorice, mulberry and pepper spice notes are complemented
by stylish oak. Structured enough to age, but almost drinkable now. 2016-23
2013 Achával Ferrer Temporis Malbec
Mendoza 14%
Made with a third of each of the Finca wines - which was why there was no Temporis in
2012 - this is always the most expensive bottling at Achaval, but not necessarily the best. In
2013, it’s just a notch below the Finca Altamira, showing plush, bramble, plum and liquorice
flavours, fine tannins and an attractive, volatile lift. Dense and age worthy. 2017-24
2015 Bodega Tacuil Viñas de Dávalos
Molinos 15.7 %
Described as an “aperitif” by Raul Dávalos Senior, who likes to tease visitors, this cofermented blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon comes from a single vineyard on this
huge estate. Big and broad, yet focused at the same time, this is smooth and chalky with fine
tannins and intense damson and blueberry notes, finishing with a minerally bite. 2016-22
2013 Catena Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec
Uco Valley 14.1%
This ambitious new release from Catena (US$300 a bottle, no less) is a radical departure for
the winery that shows the left field thinking of winemaker Ale Vigil. Old wood, 50% whole
bunches and partial carbonic maceration all contribute to the complexity of this remarkable
Malbec, sourced from the same chalky soils as White Bones Chardonnay. Fresh and sappy
with aromatic red fruits and notes of clove, pepper spice and bramble and a lingering finish.
2016-25
2011 Catena Zapata Nicolás
Mendoza 14%
Consistently among the best red blends in Argentina, and a wine that ages brilliantly, this
cuvée includes only 25% Malbec this year, partly because the Agrelo Cabernet was so good
in 2012. Last made in 2006, it’s a finely balanced wine that combines the two grapes to
perfection, with notes of graphite, cassis, blueberry and subtle oak underpinned by plenty of
structure and concentration. 2016-28
2013 Cheval des Andes
Mendoza 14.8%
Is Cheval des Andes finally starting to fulfil its enormous potential? So it would appear,
because this is the best vintage yet of this Malbec-dominated blend. There’s less oak and the
Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot are delivering greater freshness on the palate. Spice,
acidity, creamy vanilla oak, fine tannins and notes of mint, blackberry and dried herbs.
2017-24
2014 Colomé Auténtico Malbec
Salta 14.5%
Made as a tribute to Raúl Dávalos, who used to own Colomé and who hates oak, this very old
vine cuvée, some of it produced from ungrafted vines, sees no barrels at all. Dense, compact
and focused, it’s an amazing wine with layers of wild, aromatic complexity and dense
blackberry fruit. 2017-25
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96
96
96
96
96
96
2012 Doña Paula Alluvia Parcel Malbec Bush Vines
Gualtallary 14.5%
Sourced from one of the best vineyards in Gualtallary, much of it planted on an old riverbed,
this is wonderfully scented and hedonistic, unfurling aromas of thyme and rosemary and
flavours of blackberry, tapenade, sweet oak and chalky, palate-cleansing acidity. And the
vines are only five years old. 2017-26
2013 Mendel Finca Remota Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14.4%
To my mind, this is the best release yet of Finca Remota, made in a cool vintage and
benefiting from the extra freshness. Aromatic, violet-scented and very fine, it’s a super
concentrated wine with beautifully delineated oak, notes of dried herbs and vibrant, chalky,
blueberry and damson fruit. 2017-26
2014 Per Se La Craie
Gualtallary 14.4%
This co-fermented blend of Malbec with 20% Cabernet Franc comes from the same vineyard
as Per Se’s Iubileus, but has more limestone influence, as its name suggests. There are only
two barrels, neither of them new, of this exceptional wine. Fresh, chalky and refined, with
dense black fruit flavours, subtle oak, a hint of green herbs and a mineral flourish. Long and
complex on the palate, this is a wine for the cellar. 2019-28
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Corte
Mendoza 14.5%
This brilliant blend of Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Tannat
is nearly always the best wine at Pulenta Estate, and that’s the case in the excellent
2012 vintage. The combination of varieties is seamless here, demonstrating finesse, oak
integration, fine tannins and notes of mint, tobacco, dried herbs, cassis and bramble.
2016-25
2013 Riglos Gran Cabernet Sauvignon
Tupungato 14.5%
Riglos’ vineyard in Gualtallary is one of the best Cabernet sites in Argentina, especially in a
cooler vintage like 2013. Showing very pure varietal flavours, with dense blackcurrant and
blackberry fruit, masses of dry extract, fine-grained tannins and notes of green herbs and
mint supported by acidity. 2017-25
2013 Tintonegro 1955 Vineyard Malbec
La Consulta 14%
Guess when this vineyard was planted? Actually, it’s a combination of two sites, one of which
was planted in 1941. This is a stunning wine, showing layers of dark, savoury blackberry
and liquorice flavours, smooth tannins, bright acidity and a balanced, nuanced finish. Very
complete. 2017-26
2011 Trapiche Iscay
Mendoza 14.5%
Combining Malbec from Gualtallary with 30% Cabernet Franc from Maipú, this is a very
similar blend to the 2010, but is a step up in quality. Perfume, pepper spice, some capsicum,
stylish oak and chalky minerality: this is one of the best candidates for your cellar in
Argentina. 2016-26
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96
96
96
96
96
96
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Ambrosía
Gualtallary 15.5%
The highest of the three vineyards that are used for the Terroir Series, this is also from a
young site. It’s the most refreshing and focused of the trio, with red and black fruits, stylish
oak and the chalky minerality that is so typical of the best wines from Gualtallary. 2016-26
2013 Tres 14 Imperfecto
Gualtallary 14.5%
As well as being the chief winemaker at Trapiche, Daniel Pi makes this, his own brand, on the
side. It’s a brilliant, co-fermented blend of Malbec with 3% Cabernet Franc from Gualtallary,
that’s layered, refreshing and very complex. Spicy, peppery and stylishly oaked, it has a
mineral-edged finish that lingers enticingly on the palate and a touch of whole bunches.
2017-26
2013 Viña Cobos Malbec
Perdriel 14.9%
Is this the best wine in Argentina? Some critics seem to think so. It’s certainly a very
impressive Malbec, but it’s one that’s made in a particular style: aromatic, concentrated and
lavishly oaked, with ripe plum and blackberry fruit, attractive spices and plenty of alcohol.
This is slightly fresher than the 2012, pointing to a slight shift in style. 2016-24
1983 Weinert Cavas de Weinert Gran Vino
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Anyone who thinks that the best Argentinean wines are incapable of ageing for 30 years or
more should try a bottle of this remarkable Bordeaux blend, still available from Weinert.
Complex, savoury and slightly feral, it’s a sweet, figgy, floral, mature red with notes of dried
herbs and incense. 2016-22
1994 Weinert Estrella Malbec
Luján de Cuyo 14.5%
A wine that spent 15 years in old wooden “toneles” before bottling, this is a remarkable old
vine Malbec that wouldn’t look out of place in Rioja or Tuscany. Complex and still evolving,
it’s concentrated, stylish and smoky with plenty of tannic backbone and sweet, figgy flavours.
2016-24
Gualtallary 14.5%
One of the great things about the Aluvional series is how different they taste. Made with
purchased fruit from Tupungato Winelands, this is fresh, richly aromatic and peppery
with fine-grained, but firm tannins, notes of thyme and rosemary and a frisson of chalky
minerality. 2017-28
La Consulta 14.5%
The La Consulta site is a stony, river-derived soil at lower altitude and tends to produce the
darkest and most concentrated of the three Aluvional bottlings. Chalky, savoury and dense,
with understated oak and punchy tannins, it’s a wine that will age effortlessly in bottle.
2017-26
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©2016 Tim Atkin
96
2013 Zuccardi Finca Los Membrillos
La Consulta 14.5%
The Zuccardis are increasingly regarded as Malbec specialists, but they are equally adept at
making Cabernet Sauvignon if this varietal expression is anything to go by. Subtle oak, mint
and dried herbs, blackcurrant sweetness, some graphite and green pepper and textured,
finely judged tannins. 2018-26
95
2013 Andeluna Pasionado Cuatro Cepas
95
2013 Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Malbec
95
95
95
95
Tupungato 14.6%
The four grapes in question are Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and just a little Merlot,
which struggled in 2013. This is a lovely, refined wine showing leafy, green pepper and
graphite notes, nuanced, filigree tannins, stylish oak and refreshing, focused acidity. Every
bit as good as the 2012. 2017-24
Mendoza 13.9%
Sourced entirely from vineyards in the cool (in both sense of the word) Uco Valley sub-region
of Gualtallary, this is an outstanding blend of Malbec with 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit
Verdot. Dense, yet chalky, it’s a multi-layered wine where the perfumed, blackberry fruit
does the talking. 2016-22
Cabernet Franc
Gualtallary 13.9%
Nine soil types and thirty-two different vinifications contribute to the complexity of this
wine. Chalky and refined, it’s a delicious Cabernet Franc (with 15% Malbec), showing flavours
of green herbs, capsicum and refreshing minerality, supported by structured, well-defined
tannins. 2016-25
2014 Bodega Cuarto Dominio Chento Single Lot Malbec
Mendoza 14%
If the 2013 release of this blend of Malbec with 5% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot was
special, this is even better, taking its place among Mendoza’s best reds. Smoky mulberry and
blueberry fruit, superb balance, structured tannins and a fine, refreshing, tapering finish.
Red winemaking of a high order. 2017-25
2013 Caro
Mendoza 14.5%
The best red I’ve had yet from this Franco-Argentine joint venture, this equal blend
of Cabernet from Las Compuertas and Cabernet Sauvignon from Altamira is rich and
concentrated, but with considerable style and polish. Savoury, sappy and just a little earthy,
with supporting acidity and beautifully judged oak integration. 2017-30
2014 Catena Appellation Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo 13.5%
This is stand-out red among the Catena appellation wines, made with the Furlotti Cabernet
selection. Old vines, cold soils and subtly interwoven French oak are complemented by
classic Cabernet grip and backbone. Dried herbs, mint and blueberry fruit combine to
impressive effect here. 2016-22
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©2016 Tim Atkin
95
95
95
95
95
95
95
2013 Catena Fortuna Terrae Malbec
Uco Valley 14.1%
Another new release from the Catena stable, also from the Adrianna Vineyard, but made in a
very different way from the Riverstone bottling, using older oak to allow the fruit to express
itself. Spicy, bright and finely balanced, this has impressive perfume, sculpted tannins and a
limestone frisson. 2017-23
2013 Chacra Pinot Treinta y Dos Pinot Noir
Río Negro 13.2%
Paler in colour than the 1955 bottling, which it often is, this is also more delicate and refined.
There’s a touch more new oak here, but it’s balanced by the sweet wild strawberry and cherry
stone flavours and silky tannins. Fresh and tangy, this finishes with a chalky flourish that
cleans the palate. 2017-23
2015 Chacra Sin Azufre Pinot Noir
Río Negro 13%
A radical new departure for Chacra, but you may have to go to Patagonia to taste it, as this
concrete-fermented and aged Pinot is made without sulphur and unlikely to be exported.
Floral, clean and sappy with rose petal and red cherry flavours and refined tannins. Who says
Pinot needs oak? Or sulphur? 2017-19
2014 Chakana Ayni Malbec
The 2013 of this top Altamira Malbec was very good indeed, but this is even better. Aromatic,
fine and deftly oaked, it manages to combine density and blackberry fruit weight with
freshness, focus and minerality. Edging towards the Uco Valley’s elite group of Malbecs.
2017-25
2012 Cheval des Andes
Mendoza 15%
The move to larger ok formats and earlier picking is apparent in this blend of Malbec with
26% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Petit Verdot, as is the slightly cooler year. Plum and
liquorice flavours, cut grass and graphite aromas and fine, but concentrated tannins all
contribute to an impressive cuvée. 2017-24
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran
Cabernet Sauvignon
Vistalba 15.2%
This is a brilliant expression of the fruit from Parcel 3, that’s a very pure expression of the
variety. It’s dense, serious and compact, with quite a bit of oak, but plenty of structure too.
Spice, graphite, some vanilla and dense, compact damson and black fig flavours with a smoky
finish. 2017-24
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Corte
Vistalba 14.8%
Made for the first time in 2012, this blend of Malbec with 30% Cabernet is an impressive
second release. Dense, ripe and showing the concentration that’s a feature of this vineyard,
this has plenty of oak, a slight volatile lift and dense, dark bramble, blackberry and
blackcurrant flavours. Big, bold and structured. 2017-25
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©2016 Tim Atkin
95
95
2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Malbec
Vistalba 14.8%
The Gran Malbec comes from Parcel 3 of this characterful vineyard and is aged for 14
months in one third new oak. The cooler year is apparent in the perfume and texture of the
wine, as well as its nuanced tannins. The oak needs more time to integrate, but the fruit is
sweet, supple and yet refreshing. 2017-23
2012 Doña Paula Selección de Bodega Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Using fruit from Doña Paula’s three Mendoza vineyards - in Ugarteche, San Carlos and
Gualtallary - this is dominated by the two Uco parcels to compensate for a hotter vintage
in 2012. Wild Mediterranean herbs, sappy acidity, fine oak and chiselled tannins are
complemented by sweet black fruits. 2017-25
95
2012 Fabre Montmayou Grand Vin
95
2013 Finca Flichman Dedicado
95
95
95
95
Mendoza 14.5%
Consistently among the leading red blends in Argentina, this is a cuvée of Malbec with
10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot. Old vine concentration, stylish oak and skilful
winemaking have produced an assemblage that’s smoky, intense and very plush with
impressive blackberry, damson and liquorice notes and a very long finish. 2017-25
Tupungato 14.5%
Made by the youthful German Berra, this Uco Valley blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with 20%
Syrah and 10% Malbec is outstanding. It’s a floral, elegant, refined style with fine tannins,
succulent red berry fruit and tangy, supporting acidity. Effortlessly well balanced. 2016-22
2013 La Mascota Gran Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
The Altamira origins of this wine, made with purchased fruit, are apparent on the nose and
palate, where chalky minerality is appealingly evident. Focused, sappy and long, with cassis
and forest fruits and deftly integrated oak. A wine that makes you want to finish the bottle.
2016-23
2013 Luca Nico by Luca High G Lot Malbec
Gualtallary 14%
Like the Pint Noir under the same label, this comes from a vineyard that was planted in 2010
and is another outstanding red. Scented, floral and refined, with ageing in one-third new
oak, dense, yet crunchy black fruits, fine tannins and a hint of wild herbs. Part of a radical
change of style here. 2017-25
2013 Noemía Malbec
Río Negro 15%
Patagonia’s top wine is on fine form in this cooler vintage. Gloriously perfumed and spicy, it’s
a rich, savoury, stylishly oaked Malbec with ripe, fine-grained tannin, bright acidity and the
concentration to age further in bottle. This is all about fruit quality and gentle winemaking.
2017-25
2010 Norton Gernot Langes
Mendoza 14.8%
The top wine from Norton, which is always released with some bottle age, is a blend of
Malbec with 20% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It’s just moving into
a secondary phase, away from primary fruit into a world of tobacco leaf, game and Asian
spices, complemented by summer berries and a core of tannin. 2016-20
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95
95
95
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95
2012 Norton Lote A112 Malbec
Agrelo 14.5%
Sourced from Agrelo, this is a suitably rich, concentrated Malbec with opulent texture and
well-integrated oak. Floral and full of enticing plum and blueberry fruit, complemented by
pepper and nutmeg spice and underlying freshness, this is modern Argentinean winemaking
at its best. 2016-24
2014 Per Se Volare del Camino
Gualtallary 14.4%
This new release for the Per Se team comes from a tiny, limestone-rich parcel located at
1,450 metres. It’s a varietal Malbec that, like all the wines from this young operation, is very
ambitious in style. Focused, taut and super dense, it’s defined by its minerality and freshness,
but is packed with dark berry fruit. An exciting début from this impressive winery. 2017-28
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Franc
Agrelo 14.5%
The Pulentas were making classy Cabernet Franc long before the vogue for the variety got
under way in Mendoza. This is as good as ever: grassy, graphite-scented and fine, with
effortlessly integrated new oak, filigree tannins, notes of spice and green pepper and a
polished, lingering finish. 2016-23
2013 Puramun Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14%
Pepe Galante is one of the best winemakers in Argentina, so it’s no surprise that the reds he
produces under his own label are so impressive. This is a typically elegant, subtle Malbec
with notes of red berry fruit, subtle spices, well integrated oak and silky, palate-caressing
tannins. 2017-23
2013 Riglos Gran Corte
Tupungato 14.5%
This almost equal cuvée of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc is consistently
one of the best Bordeaux blends in Argentina. Dense, oaky and made for the long term, it’s
not afraid to be serious. Compact, focused and stony with firm, concentrated, dark berry
fruit and excellent balance. 2018-26
2014 Salentein Single Vineyard San Pablo Plot No. 14 Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
You’d have to say that this is a marginal site, located at 1,450 metres and picked at the end of
April, but this is a thrilling wine. Elegant, chalky and refined with focus, balance and palatecleansing acidity, stylish use of oak and a spicy, clove and pepper-like finish. I’m already
looking forward to the next release. It’s a shame there are only 3,000 bottles produced.
2017-25
2013 Tintonegro Finca La Escuela Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
Combining fruit from the vineyard’s four soil types, picked over the space of three weeks,
this is like a greatest hits collection. It’s a very complete, stony wine that eschews easy
drinkability in favour of longevity. White pepper, clove, subtle oak, violet and plum flavours
and dark, grippy, minerally tannins: superb winemaking from the Tintonegro team. 2017-25
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2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Piedra Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
Of the four La Escuela Vineyard bottlings, this is the one with the highest percentage of
calcium carbonate and it shows in the refreshing minerality of the wine. Zippy, focused and
tangy, with notes of wild herbs, good grip and fruit weight and a long, palate-cleansing finish.
2017-25
2013 Trapiche Iscay Syrah/Viognier
Uco Valley 14.5%
A Rhône meets California style from Los Arboles, this is a co-fermentation with 3% Viognier
and 20 whole bunches. It’s a spicy, peppery number with good minerality, understated oak, a
hint of apricot and gentle oak integration. One of Argentina’s best Rhône blends. 2016-21
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Cristina y Bibiana Coletto
Tupungato 14.5%
Made with grapes from a vineyard at 1,200 metres, planted in 1945 on sandy, silty soils, this
is showing delightful perfume and balance in 2012. Fine-grained tannins, succulent red
fruits, bright acidity and stylish oak all make a contribution to this appropriately feminine
wine from the Coletto sisters. 2016-24
2012 Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Orellana de Escobar
La Consulta 14.5%
The Orellana parcel is located on stony, alluvial soils close to Paraje Altamira and benefits
from densely planted old vines. This is typically rich and complex, with aromas of liquorice
and Mediterranean herbs, good sap and focus, subtle oak, smooth tannins, blueberry fruit
and a hint of minerality. 2016-23
1994 Weinert Estrella Cabernet Sauvignon
There have only been five Estrella wines in the last 40 years, so these tend to be pretty
special as well as rare. This was made by the legendary Raul de la Motta and it’s an amazing,
mature red with complex flavours of dried herbs, mint and fruitcake underpinned by acidity
and stylish tannins. 2016-24
2013 Zorzal Field Blend
Gualtallary 14.5%
Supremely graceful and aromatic, this grassy, stylish, chalky red is a brilliant cuvée of cofermented Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Finer than the 2012 and a little riper too, this is
a sappy, floral delight, showing just the right amount of oak. 2017-24
2015 Zuccardi Concreto Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
“Texture, not sweetness” is what Sebastián Zuccardi is looking for in this 80% whole bunchfermented Malbec, which, as it’s name suggests, sees no wood. Spicy and smooth, with
meaty, tapenade notes that wouldn’t look out of place in the northern Rhône Valley, this is
superbly balanced. 2016-23
2012 Zuccardi Zeta
Uco Valley 15%
Zeta combines Malbec from La Consulta with 13% Cabernet Sauvignon from Gualtallary,
with a touch of whole bunches and ageing in large wooden foudres. The Cabernet gives the
wine tannic depth and focus, allowing the Malbec to show its violet and lavender perfume
and sweet blueberry fruit. 2017-24
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2013 Achával Ferrer Quimera
Mendoza 14.5%
There’s no Petit Verdot in the 2013 Quimera (it was hailed on), but more Cabernet Franc than
usual. Spicy, chalky and sappy, with lots of red berry fruit, savoury tannins, stylish oak and
notes of violets and blueberries. In short, this is a typically polished performance from the
Achaval team. 2016-21
2014 Altocedro Pinot Noir
La Consulta 14%
Karim Mussi’s Pinot Noir is a delicious expression of the so-called heartbreak grape, sourced
from La Consulta of all places. Pale and very subtle, with clove spice notes from partial whole
bunch fermentation, sweet, succulent wild strawberry fruit and aromatic oak. Very exciting.
2016-19
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Altamira
Paraje Altamira 14%
Showing the focus, perfume and grip that are a feature of many Altamira wines, this has
bright acidity, sappy tannins, barely discernible oak, dark blackberry and damson fruit and
typically chalky minerality. Brilliant and brave winemaking from the Chilea-Italian Altos
crew. 2017-25
2013 Amalaya Finca San Isidro Corte Unico
Salta 14.5%
Barrel fermented in new oak, this is a perfumed, high quality blend of Malbec with 5% each
of Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon. Sweet plum and bramble flavours are complemented by
supple tannins, stylish vanilla spice and a long, tapering finish. A superb follow up to the
début 2012. 2017-21
2011 Atamisque Assemblage
Uco Valley 15%
Some of the Malbec fruit that goes into this blend with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot
and 7% Petit Verdot comes from vines that are over 100 years old. It’s another very stylish,
nuanced wine with sculpted tannins, chalky acidity and notes of umami, black fruits and
dried herbs. 2016-21
2013 Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 13.9%
If you want to see what all the fuss is about Argentinean Cabernet Franc, try a bottle of this
example (blended with 7% Malbec). The 50% whole bunches add spice and structure to a
wine that’s bold, saline and complex, showing notes of spice, rich tannins and profound
damson and black cherry fruit. 2016-22
2012 Bodega Aleanna El Gran Enemigo
Gualtallary 13.9%
This Cabernet Franc-based red contains lesser percentages of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec,
Merlot and Petit Verdot, all of it grown on limestone soils in Gualtallary. It’s a big, powerful
wine that needs time. Mint, dried Mediterranean herbs, whole bunch spices and rich,
compact tannins. 2016-24
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Cabernet Franc
Agrelo 13.9%
Unusually for a Bodega Aleanna wine, this comes from Agrelo rather than the Uco Valley.
It’s co-fermented with 15% Malbec and made with 100% whole bunches and very little oak
influence. Spicy, powerful and sappy with notes of green pepper, clove and blueberry and a
nuanced, balanced finish. 2016-23
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2013 Bodega Cuarto Dominio Chento Single Lot Malbec
Mendoza 13.9%
A discovery for me this year, Javier Catena’s blend of Malbec with 3% Cabernet Franc and 2%
Petit Verdot is a revelation. It’s an ambitious, stylishly oaked wine showing delightful balance
between crunchy fruit, fine tannins and minerally acidity. Very long and very polished.
2017-24
2015 Bodega Tacuil 33 de Dávalos
Molinos 15.5%
You’d imagine that a wine with 15.5% alcohol would taste a little jammy and over-ripe, but
that’s not the case at Tacuil, where the wines have vitality and vibrancy, thanks to their high
altitude. This 80/20 Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon blend is pure, balanced and wonderfully
aromatic, showing violet, lavender and oregano notes. 2016-25
2013 Bodega Vistalba Corte A
Vistalba 15%
The Corte A blend is an assemblage of Malbec with 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10%
Bonarda, with more evident new oak and more concentration. This is a ripe style, all right,
but it’s polished and harmonious with figgy, raspberry and black cherry fruit and finegrained tannins. Classy winemaking. 2016-22
2010 Bressia Ultima Hoja
Mendoza 14.5%
There are only 1,700 bottles of this, the top Bressia cuvée made, and the blend is always a
secret. It’s a bold, impressive red that sees 200% new French oak. Ripe, textured and full
of dark berry fruit, this is suitably toasty on the palate, with masses of concentration for
balance. 2016-22
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte La Verdad
Gualtallary 14%
My favourite Buscado wine is a co-fermented blend of Malbec with 7% Cabernet Franc,
showing the wildness and intense perfume of Gualtallary. Savoury, aromatic and dense with
pure, lifted fruit flavours of mulberry, bramble and blackcurrant, textured tannins and a
grassy, green pepper note. 2017-25
2012 Casa Bianchi Enzo Bianchi
San Rafael 14.5%
First made by Paul Hobbs when he was a consultant at the winery, this is Bianchi’s top wine,
a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot. It’s a very polished,
modern style Bordeaux blend sourced from chalk and volcanic soils, showing fine-grained
tannins and piercing blackcurrant fruit. 2017-24
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2014 Casa de Uco Malbec
Vista Flores 14.3%
A brilliant second release from a fledgling Uco Valley operation, this varietal, cooler climate
Malbec is sappy and refreshing, with taut, refreshing acidity, notes of wild herbs and fresh
earth, some pepper and clove and a core of succulent black fruits underpinned by minerality.
2017-25
2013 Casa de Uco Malbec
Vista Flores 14.3%
This is the more expensive of the two Malbec releases from Casa de Uco, made with a little
more oak and showing more dark fruit concentration. The freshness that makes the Salvaje
such a delight is in evidence here, too. Blackberry, clove and pepper spice and a long, tapering
finish. 2017-23
2013 Casarena DNA Cabernet Sauvignon
Using genetic material taken from an old, parral-trellised vineyard, this is a very plush, yet
complex Luján Cabernet showing why the variety does so well here. Smooth and textured,
with ripe blackcurrant and blackberry fruit, savoury tannins and notes of green herbs and
graphite. 2017-22
2013 Casarena Lauren’s Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Agrelo 14.5%
The vines are only seven years old, but this is still an impressive Cabernet Franc that’s very
enticing on the nose and palate. Smooth, savoury and scented, with graphite and green
pepper flavours, some fresh herbs and a hint of rose petal. Characteristically approachable
and easy to drink. 2016-21
2013 Casarena Lauren’s Vineyard Malbec
Agrelo 14.5%
This rocky, limestone-influenced site makes exquisitely perfumed reds such as this one.
Thyme, rosemary and lavender aromas segue into a plush, textured palate with savoury, finegrained tannins and well handled oak. Intense, yet refreshing. 2016-21
2013 Catena Alta Historic Rows Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14%
Catena is better known for its Malbecs than its Cabernet Sauvignons these days, but it’s
equally good at making both varieties. This blend of Luján with 20% Uco fruit is a delicious
expression of the grape, with impressive backbone and presence and notes of mint, fresh
tobacco and dried herbs. 2016-22
2015 Chacra Cincuenta y Cinco Pinot Noir
Río Negro 13.5%
You may have to wait a while before this wine, sourced from the winery’s 1955 plantings,
hits the market, as it’s just been bottled. The wait will be worth it, however. Sappy, stony and
complex, it combines savoury, red berry fruit, a nip of tannin and stylish, understated oak.
2017-22
2014 Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend
Uco Valley 14.5%
Syrah has been dropped from the blend here, leaving Malbec with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon
and 5% Cabernet Franc. This is a delicious, high-toned cuvée with notes of clove and white
pepper, understated oak, seamless tannins and a palate-cleansing freshness that makes you
want to go on drinking. 2016-23
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2015 Colomé Altura Máxima Lote Especial Pinot Noir
Salta 14%
A step up on the 2013 release (which was already impressive), this very high altitude Pinot
Noir is made with two Burgundian clones, 777 and 115. Some whole bunches and notes of
limestone freshness both add an extra dimension to this stylish, spicy, refined red. 2016-21
2013 Colomé Lote Especial Malbec El Arenal
Salta 14.5%
El Arenal is located at 2,600 metres and produces the deepest in colour as well as the most
aromatic of the three special lot wines. Bloody, ferrous notes, dense tannins, lots of perfume
and compact black fruit flavours supported by acidity. There’s an appealing wildness to this
wine. 2017-24
2013 Colomé Lote Especial Malbec Molinos
Salta 14.5%
The Molinos Malbec comes from the Colomé Estate, located at 2,300 metres on granite and
sandy soils. It’s a dense, well-upholstered red with good grip and extraction, savoury, dark
fruits and balancing acidity. Long on the palate, it’s a stylish expression of a special place.
2017-22
2014 Dominio del Plata Benmarco Expresivo
Gualtallary 14.5%
Made from a combination of Malbec with 20% Cabernet Franc, both from high altitude
Gualtallary, this is a serious, complex red blend that’s every bit as good as the 2013. Sappy,
spicy and rich, this is abundantly perfumed, flavoursome and mineral-edged with a long,
chalky finish. 2017-26
2013 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Limited Edition Malbec
The top Malbec at Dominio del Plata is fermented in concrete eggs and comes entirely from
Altamira. It’s a dark, brooding, concentrated wine with compact tannins, a touch of oak from
barrel maturation and bags of dense blackberry and liquorice flavours. A big wine that’s
supported by acidity. 2017-25
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Tannat
Cafayate 14.5%
This stunning Tannat comes from a 60-year-old parral vineyard and is picked late in the
season when its tannins have had time to soften. Old oak fermented, it’s spicy and sweet,
with a backbone of gruff tannins, notes of clove spice and refreshing acidity and layer upon
layer of flavours. 2016-24
2012 Entonado Malbec
Lucas Amoretti works for Daniel Pi at Trapiche but makes a little wine under his own
label, too. This was a revelation to me, and suggests that Amoretti has a very promising
future. Orange peel, blackberry fruit, fine tannins and refreshing, zesty acidity are skilfully
combined here. A name to watch. 2016-23
2015 Escorihuela Gascón 1884 Malbec Biodinámico
Mendoza 14%
One of only a handful of biodynamic wines in Argentina, this is an impressive, even
inspirational, Malbec. Rich, smooth and perfumed, it’s a savoury, complex, intense red that
tastes as if it’s been infused with aromatic Mediterranean herbs. Spicy and scented with
subtle oak and refreshing acidity. 2016-22
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2014 Fabre Montmayou Cabernet Franc Reserva
Mendoza 14.5%
You’d expect a Bordeaux winemaker to be good at producing Cabernet Franc, and that’s
the case with Hervé Joyaux-Fabre. This comes from Perdriel, and sees no new oak at all,
allowing the cool, grassy, spicy perfume of the grape to express itself. Leafy yet voluptuous,
with plenty of structure. 2016-21
2013 Fabre Montmayou Malbec Gran Reserva
Vistalba 14.4%
This is a very ambitious, backward wine sourced from 60-year-old vines. Dense and
complex, with plenty of tannic backbone and oak balanced by fresh acidity and layers of dark
berry fruit, liquorice and Asian spices. It’s a shame that this will be drunk too young. 2017-25
2014 Fabre Montmayou Malbec Reserva
Vistalba 14.5%
Vistalba Malbec tends to be round and plush in style, and that’s the case here, but this is not
a heavy wine. Notes of pepper spice, clove and violet are intertwined with the succulent dark
berry fruit and toasty, yet refined oak. This is a beautifully judged wine with texture to spare.
2016-22
2013 Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Malbec
Tupungato 14.5%
One of those wines you want to tell the whole world about, this is a stylish, refined Malbec
from the Uco Valley exhibiting savoury, perfumed red berry fruit, lovely oak integration,
fine-boned tannins, a hint of clove and white pepper and a long, balanced, refreshing finish.
Nuanced winemaking. 2016-21
2013 Finca Las Moras Gran Syrah
San Juan 15%
Blending grapes from San Juan’s three valleys - Pedernal, Zonda and Tulúm - this is the
latest in a run of excellent Syrahs from Las Moras. Black fruits, some tapenade, roasted meat
and clove spice notes are supported by a foundation of fine-grained tannins and acidity.
2016-22
2012 José-Luis Mounier Laguna Brava Tannat Selected Reserve
Cafayate 14%
The more I taste Tannats of this quality, the more I think the variety has as much potential
as Cabernet Franc in Argentina. This superb, barrel-fermented example comes from a
0.5-hectare planting and combines flavours of black pepper with dense fruit, grippy tannins
and refreshing natural acidity. 2016-21
2014 Luca Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
By far the best Malbec I’ve tasted from Laura Catena’s personal project, this combines fruit
from La Consulta, Gualtallary and Altamira. It’s a nuanced, focused wine that showcases
the skills of winemaker Estela Perinetti, exhibiting lovely balance, acidity and peppery,
blueberry notes. 2017-24
2013 Luca Nico by Luca High G Lot Pinot Noir
Gualtallary 14%
These high altitude plantings at 1,600 metres are still very young, but have enormous
potential if this first release is a guide. Chalky red fruits, fine tannins and understated oak
with excellent underlying freshness: like an Argentinean take on Chambolle-Musigny.
2016-21
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2014 Mater Vini Alteza Malbec
Salta 14%
Unlike the 2013 Alteza, this is made entirely with Salta fruit, shipped to Mendoza. Rich and
densely coloured, it’s a highly scented wine with a slight volatile lift, subtle oak, plenty of
clove and pepper spice and a minerally undertone. A Salta wine vinified in Luján by Santiago
Achával. 2017-23
2014 Mater Vini Finca Malbec
Perdriel 14.5%
Made from an old vine parcel on what Santiago Achával calls “traditional Mendoza soils” in
Perdriel, this benefits from low yields. It’s another impressive release from this new winery,
balancing acidity, serious tannins and rich blueberry and black cherry fruit. Serve with a
lump of protein to show at its best. 2017-22
2014 Mater Vini Piedras Viejas
El Challao 14.5%
This is remarkably good, especially given that it was produced from six-year-old vines in El
Challao, located at 1,600 metres and to the west of Mendoza. Very dark, very intense and
very mineral, this is very promising indeed, combining freshness with power, dark, savoury
fruit with focus. 2017-24
2013 Mendel Unus
Mendoza 14.7%
A pan-Mendoza cuvée of Malbec with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot,
this is a very serious, age worthy red with lots of oak and structure and the complexity to
develop further in bottle. The cooler vintage has produced a wine that’s savoury and a little
backward, but with layers of dark, spicy fruit. 2017-24
2013 Noemía J Alberto Malbec
Río Negro 14.5%
The J Alberto bottling comes from the winery’s 1955 Vineyard in Mainque and is a blend of
Malbec with 5% Merlot. Aromatic, savoury and dense, it’s a wine that’s made to age, showing
the balance and fine tannins that are a hallmark of Hans Vinding-Diers’ winemaking, subtle
oak, old vine density and a volatile lift. A cheaper alternative to Noemía. 2017-21
2012 Norton Lote L112 Malbec
Lunlunta 14.8%
You’d expect a wine from warmer Eastern Mendoza to be pretty ripe, but this Lunlunta
Malbec comes from a cooler site close to the Mendoza River. Spice, black fruits, fine, chalky
tannins and deft oak integration make this another impressive Lot Series wine from Norton.
2016-23
2010 Norton Perdriel Vineyard Selection
Perdriel 14.5%
One of the two top wines at Norton, this Luján red is dominated by Malbec with 28%
Cabernet Sauvignon and 12% Merlot. It’s a bold, strapping number with a lot of oak, dense
tannins and rich plum, black fig and damson fruit underpinned by acidity. Just coming into
its own at six years old. 2016-22
2012 Norton Privada Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Older than the Privada blend, but also more backward, this is a blend of grapes from Luján
and the Uco Valley. Sappy and firm, with plenty of structure and fruit weight, it still needs a
little time in bottle to show at its best. But what a wine we have in prospect. 2017-24
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2014 Per Se Francesca
Vista Flores 14.5%
The grapes for this three-way blend of Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Franc come from
Chacayes, just above Clos de los Siete, from one of the coolest sites in the area. It’s a serious
wine that is still showing a little reduction at the moment, but is packed with dark bramble
and blackberry fruit and underpinned by acidity. Still a baby. 2017-25
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Combining fruit from Agrelo and the Uco Valley, and using leaf plucking to expose the
bunches, the Pulentas have made a delicious wine in 2102. Concentrated and structured,
with vibrant violet, plum and blackberry notes, stylish new oak and palate-cleansing acidity.
One for the cellar. 2016-25
2013 Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Finca Don Antonio Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Showing more acidity than the La Zulema bottling, reflecting its Uco Valley origins, this
is sappy, spicy and perfumed with bright acidity, chiselled tannins and scented, palatecaressing bramble and blueberry fruit. An excellent addition to the Pulenta range. 2017-14
2013 Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Gualtallary Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
You can almost taste the chalk in this northern Uco Valley red, made with purchased fruit
from Tupungato Winelands. It’s the most tannic and focused of the three site-specific
Malbecs, with masses of colour, smooth oak, a mineral flourish and spicy, blackberry and
damson flavours. 2017-25
2012 Pyros Special Blend
Pedernal 14%
Inky in colour, as the wines from this valley tend to be, the Special Blend is a cuvée of Malbec
with 22% Syrah and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. Ginger spice and blood orange aromas segue
into a dense, ripe, well-balanced red with seamless oak and a mineral finish. 2017-23
2014 Riccitelli Wines República del Malbec
Vistalba 14.5%
Sourced from a vineyard planted in 1908, this 6,000-bottle Malbec is among the most
complex in the Riccitelli line-up. Intense, textured and voluptuous, with some spice, a hint of
chalk, ripe black fruits and a tannic backbone. Definitely worth cellaring a few of these.
2017-24
2014 Riglos Gran Cabernet Franc
Tupungato 14.5%
Over a third of the plantings in Riglos’ 17-hectare Gualtallary site is Cabernet Franc and it’s a
variety that Juan Carlos Rodríguez makes as well as anyone. Cool, refreshing and grassy, this
is a wine with plenty of texture and structure. Green pepper, graphite and leafy coolness are
supported by refreshing acidity. 2017-24
2013 Rutini Apartado Gran Malbec
Uco Valley 14.6%
A top end, pan-Uco Valley blend from Tupungato, La Consulta and Paraje Altamira, this
is a rich, age- worthy wine that’s just beginning to develop in bottle. Intense, focused and
concentrated, with dark berry and bramble fruit, chocolatey oak and impressive palate
length. Very polished. 2017-24
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2012 Rutini Single Vineyard Malbec
Typical of the bold modern style favoured by Mariano di Paola at Rutinin, this is rich and
deeply coloured with well handled 80% new oak, stylish tannins, floral plum, liquorice and
blueberry fruit flavours, some dried herbs and a frisson of underlying chalky acidity. 2017-24
2013 Salentein Numina Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 14.5%
If you want to understand why I’m so excited about the potential of Cabernet Franc in
Argentina, buy yourself a bottle of this very impressive example. Leafy, complex and
deeply coloured, with some spice, plush tannins and grassy plum and green pepper fruit
underpinned by bright acidity. 2016-22
2013 Salentein Numina Gran Corte
Uco Valley 14.5%
What a delicious, sure-footed, Malbec-dominated blend of the five Bordeaux varieties this is.
Complex and understated, with scented vanilla oak, fine-grained tannins, refreshing acidity
and layer after layer of cassis, plum, blackberry and blueberry fruit. Refined, understated
winemaking. 2017-25
2014 Salentein Single Vineyard Altamira Plot No. 1 Malbec
Salentein’s first Malbec release from its 10 hectares in Paraje Altamira is an auspicious
début. Savoury and complex, with the precision and focus that the sub-region often seems
to provide, it’s an aromatic, pepper and ginger spicy red with some chocolatey oak and good
palate length. 2016-24
2014 Salentein Single Vineyard Plot No. 1 Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 14%
Salentein’s top Pinot hails from one of the highest vineyards in the Uco Valley, planted in
2002. It’s one of the country’s best interpretations of this tricky variety, showing clove spice
from 10% whole bunches, notes of mint and summer berries and very stylish oak integration.
2017-25
2013 SonVida Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14%
This is a remarkable Cabernet Sauvignon from David and Sonia Smith, which marks a
significant improvement on the already promising 2012 release. Lacy tannins, bright acidity
and scented, leafy blackcurrant fruit are underscored by acidity and complemented by finegrained oak. One of the best Cabernets in Latin America. 2017-23
2010 Tempus Alba Vero Malbec
Mendoza 14%
Vero contains one third of each of the three best Malbec clones at Tempus Alba and is a
brilliant justification of the work Aldo Biondillo has done with the grape. Fragrant, polished
and well balanced, with stylish oak, refreshing natural acidity and a combination of red
cherry, plum and orange peel flavours. 2016-19
2011 Terrazas de los Andes Single Parcel Los Castaños Malbec
This is so dark it’s virtually opaque. Suitably rich and viscous on the palate, it’s a dense,
structured, layered Malbec that’s made to age. The plushness of the black fruits is
complemented by sweet oak and balanced by acidity and minerality. Very serious stuff.
2016-24
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2012 Terrazas de los Andes Single Vineyard
Las Compuertas Malbec
Las Compuertas 14.6%
Areas like Las Compuertas tend to get overlooked by wine lovers, such is the buzz about the
Uco Valley these days, but they shouldn’t be. This has lots of floral perfume, attractive spices,
structured tannins, impressive focus and a sheen of polished oak. 2016-23
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2013 Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Cabernet
Sauvignon
Mendoza 14.5%
This exceptional vineyard on the border between Perdriel and Agrelo seems to be especially
well suited to Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a ripe style, but it’s crafted with precision, showing
bright mint and blackcurrant notes, scented oak and a backbone of defined tannins. Worth
cellaring, too. 2016-25
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2012 Viña Cobos Bramare Rebon Vineyard Malbec
La Consulta 14.5%
Paul Hobbs makes this impressive Malbec with only 10-year-old purchased fruit from
La Consulta. It’s a classic Viña Cobos style showing textured tannins, ripe blueberry and
blackberry fruit, expertly handled oak, some Asian spices and enough acidity for balance.
Ripe, yet well judged. 2016-22
2013 Viña Cobos Bramare Zingaretti Vineyard Malbec
Tupungato 14.5%
Zingaretti was planted in the 1920s on alluvial soils, but this is only the second release under
the Cobos label. Finesse, nuance and freshness combine winningly on the nose and palate
here, with subtle, chalky undertones, filigree tannins and impressive oak integration. One of
the freshest wines in the winery’s portfolio and all the better for it. 2016-23
2012 Viña Cobos Volturno
Mendoza 14.5%
There’s considerably less Malbec in this vintage of Paul Hobbs and Andrea Marchiori’s
Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend in 2013, but the style remains consistent: muscular,
dense and made to age, with concentrated black fruits, deftly handled oak and layers of
intensity. Powerful stuff. 2016-24
Luján de Cuyo 15%
Aged for four years in large oak barrels and a further two in concrete before release, there’s
something wonderfully unhurried about this wine. It’s still remarkably fresh and sprightly,
with perfume, medium weight tannins and complex, savoury, gamey fruit flavours. Very fine,
very long. 2016-21
Remarkable for both its age and continuing availability, this blend of Cabernet, Malbec
and Merlot is another mature, savoury, complex wine from the Weinert team. Minerally,
refreshing and well balanced, with notes of leather, game and tobacco leaf and considerable
grip and focus. 2016-20
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1999 Weinert Estrella Merlot
You could argue that the winemaking style almost overrides the differences between
varieties at Weinert. There is definitely a house style, but it’s one I love. Floral, dried herbs,
some forest floor, sweet red fruits, good acidity and a fine, well-structured tannic backbone:
another very impressive red. 2016-22
2015 Zorzal Eggo Franco
Gualtallary 13.9%
My favourite of the current crop of concrete-fermented Eggo wines, this spends five months
on skins, providing added structure. Pure and grassy, with fine-grained tannins, complex,
perfumed fruit, a twist of the pepper grinder and refreshing acidity. 2016-21
2014 Zuccardi Emma Zuccardi Bonarda
There’s only one Emma Zuccardi bottling these days - the one from eastern Mendoza is no
more - but what a wine it is. Floral, rose petal notes segue into unoaked flavours of raspberry,
strawberry and plum, fine tannins and an elegance that’s almost Pinot Noir like. As good as
Bonarda gets. 2016-21
2013 2km
Paraje Altamira 13%
Juan Pablo Michelini of Zorzal is the winemaker behind this exciting new Malbec/Cabernet
Franc blend, introduced to me by my friend Aldo Graziani. Fine, floral and aromatic, it shows
the freshness and fruit focus that are typical of all his wines, with notes of pepper spice and
lovely balance. 2016-21
2012 A Pepa Blend
Cafayate 14.5%
Alejandro Pepa is the oenologist at El Estesco, who also makes this Malbec with 30%
Cabernet Sauvignon from Tolombón on the side. It’s a silky, refined cuvée with subtle oak,
fine tannins, wild herb aromas, bright acidity and scented, cassis and blueberry fruit.
2017-21
2014 Achaval Ferrer Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14%
Tasted pre-bottling last year, this has confirmed its promise in the intervening 12 months,
overcoming what was a difficult vintage. Combining fruit from Medrano, Perdriel and
Tupungato it’s sweet and smooth, with attractive oak, bright acidity and fine-grained
tannins. 2016-20
2013 Achaval Ferrer Finca Mirador
Medrano 14.2%
There was no Finca Mirador in 2012, as the crop was wiped out by hail, so it’s good to see
the 2013 back in the range. The oak regime has changed, according to Santiago Achaval,
to promote freshness in the wine. This is sweet and succulent with plush tannins, a hint of
liquorice and a minerally frisson. 2016-21
2013 Alta Vista Atemporal Blend
Mendoza 14.5%
Atemporal combines Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon to very fine effect. Deeply coloured
and concentrated, this is spicy, leafy and full of crunchy black fruits, all framed by aromatic
oak and filigree tannins. Long and very well balanced. 2017-23
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2012 Alta Vista Single Vineyard Temis Malbec
Mendoza 15%
Temis is the top Malbec at Alta Vista and gets the full on oak treatment. It’s a ripe, dense,
figgy wine with layers of dark berry and plain chocolate, structured tannins, an undertone of
liquorice and the power and concentration to age. A big, strapping red. 2017-23
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Reserve
Uco Valley 13.9%
Combining grapes from three Uco Valley sources, all of them on limestone soils in Paraje
Altamira, Vista Flores and Gualtallary, this is another focused, balanced, refreshing red from
the Altos team. Crunchy blackberry fruit, pepper spice and understated oak with a savoury,
umami-like undertone. 2016-22
2013 Andeluna Pasionado Cabernet Franc
Tupungato 14.2%
This is showing a little more tannin than the remarkable 2012, but maybe that’s the result of
the cooler year. It’s still a first rate expression of the grape in Gualtallary, revealing classic
green herb, cassis and graphite notes, tangy acidity and subtle oak integration. Maybe it just
needs a little time. 2017-23
2013 Anko Tigerstone Malbec Estancia Los Cardones
Salta 14%
The third release of this wine from granite and limestone soils is every bit as good as what
proceeded it. It’s a concentrated, focused style that’s less alcoholic than many of the local
reds, revealing layers of rosemary, thyme, plum and black cherry underpinned by minerality.
2016-20
2013 Atamisque Catalpa Assemblage
Uco Valley 15%
The Atamisque reds are distinguished by their perfume and fine-grained tannins. This blend
of Cabernet Franc with 20% Merlot and 10% each of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon is no
exception, featuring subtle oak, grassy yet ripe flavours, bright acidity and a long, tapering
palate. 2016-21
2015 Atamisque Serbal Cabernet Franc
Tupungato 14%
Serbal is the cheaper of the two ranges at Atamisque, which makes this scented, refined
Cabernet Franc an outstanding bargain. Poised and perfumed, it has a touch of oak, cool
elegance and notes of green pepper, chalk and cassis. 2016-19
2012 Avarizza Blend Number 1
Mendoza 14.5%
Building on the success of the 2011 release, this cuvée of Malbec with 34% Cabernet
Sauvignon is showing greater focus, balance and restraint. Scented oak, fine-grained tannins
and leafy, crunchy freshness make this a wine that’s gratifyingly easy to drink. 2016-23
2013 Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Bonarda
Mendoza 13.1%
Bonarda can be a really interesting grape in Argentina - when it comes from 80-year-old
vines and is treated with care and attention. There’s barely any oak influence here, just clove
spices from whole bunches, a hint of graphite from a dash of Cabernet Franc and a rich,
sappy, red fruited finish. 2016-20
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2013 Bodega del Río Elorza Malbec Reserva
Río Negro 14%
2013 was a cool year in Patagonia (and elsewhere in Argentina) which has given the best
wines crunchy, well defined acidity. This is sappy and bright, with classic violet and lily
aromas, fine tannins and lingering palate length. This winery continues to impress. 2016-21
2015 Bodega Tacuil Cabernet Sauvignon
Molinos 15.7%
This is only sold in Argentina, which is a shame because it’s excellent. Densely coloured,
concentrated and unoaked (of course), it’s structured, tannic and slightly wild, but like all the
Tacuil reds not over-bearing or jammy. The acidity and minerality give the wine freshness
and palate length. 2017-22
2014 Bodega Tacuil Doña Ascensión
Molinos 15.5%
To the disapproval of the older generation, this blend of Malbec with 20% Cabernet
Sauvignon was aged in older oak. First made in 2003, it’s atypical, but none the worse for
that. Spicy, structured and mineral-edged with plenty of herby perfume and just a hint of
vanilla. 2016-21
2015 Bodega Tacuil RD Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon
Molinos 15%
Bottled specially for the Gaucho Grill restaurant chain in the UK, this impressive blend of
Malbec and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon is typical of the intense, but resolutely unoaked Tacuil
style, as developed by Raul Dávalos Senior, showing wild herb “garrigue” notes, plums and
ripe, savoury tannins. 2016-21
2013 Bodega Teho Teho Malbec Tomal Vineyard
La Consulta 13.9%
The Tomal Vineyard is in La Consulta, next to Paraje Altamira, and contains a field blend of
Malbec with 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo and Syrah.
The result is a typically focused, densely concentrated, stony red with dark, tarry berry fruit
and firm tannins. 2017-23
2013 Bodega Teho Zaha El Corte Toko Vineyard
Paraje Altamira 14%
Made from Malbec co-fermented with 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a dense, structured
Paraje Altamira red built for the long haul. Earthy, cassis and blackberry fruit, some dried
herbs, well used oak and a tangy, chalky finish give this the concentration to age. 2017-21
2014 Bodega Vistalba Corte B
Riper and richer than the Corte C, as well as a little oakier, this is a blend of Malbec with 14%
Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Bonarda, of all things. It’s a plush, hedonistic red with succulent
raspberry and strawberry fruit and the fine tannins that are a feature of Bodega Vistalba’s
wines. 2016-21
2013 Bodega Vistalba Tomero Petit Verdot Reserva
Uco Valley 15%
Picked very late, in order to soften Petit Verdot’s fairly fearsome tannins, this is one of the
best examples of the grape in Argentina. Aromatic and smooth, with inky blackberry and
damson fruit, plenty of perfume and tangy acidity, this finishes with a firm grip. 2016-22
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2011 Bressia Conjuro
Mendoza 15.3%
Conjuro comes entirely from the Uco Valley and is a cuvée of mostly Malbec with 30%
Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot. This is a big, ripe wine that’s showing its 100% new
oak at the moment, but has the tannic backbone, structure and compact fruit weight to
develop in bottle. 2017-22
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Uco Valley 14.5%
The Bressia Cabernet Franc comes from La Consulta and is suitably dense and profound.
The 100% new oak is consumed by the wine here, which is classically spicy and floral, with
hints of cut grass and graphite, fine-grained tannins and enough acidity to balance the fruit
ripeness. 2016-22
El Cepillo 14%
Malbec is co-fermented with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Tempranillo here and the wine
has corresponding notes of mint and cassis, as well as a stiff backbone of tannin and acidity.
Plush fruit flavours are complemented by the stony grip and minerality that’s a feature of the
Buscado range. 2017-23
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte El Límite
Las Pareditas 14%
A blend of mostly Malbec with 7% Tempranillo and 4% Syrah, this comes from a cool
vineyard to the south of El Cepillo, where even the Tempranillo has firmish tannins. It’s a
seamless blend of the three co-fermented grapes with bright acidity, plum and red berry fruit
and a compact finish. 2017-23
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte San Jorge
Paraje Altamira 14%
As intense in colour as it is on the nose and palate, this is a stony, focused blend of Malbec
with 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc. It’s a wine that needs more time to
integrate the dense, compact tannins, but has remarkable damson and blackberry fruit
weight and concentration. 2017-24
2015 Cara Sur Bonarda
Calingasta 13.5%
This is the fourth vintage of this wine, produced from old, parral-trained vines in the
rediscovered region of Calingasta at 1,500 metres. Spicy, firm and grippy, with sappy, whole
bunch flavours, no oak and crunchy bramble, raspberry and blackberry fruit. An exceptional
Bonarda. 2016-19
2013 Caro Amancaya
Mendoza 14.5%
There’s a slight farmyardy note to this wine, but it adds a hint of Bordeaux-like complexity on
the palate and isn’t unpleasant in context. Combining Malbec with one third Cabernet, this
pan-Mendoza blend is subtle and fine, showing polished tannins, classy oak handling and
impressive balance. 2016-22
2013 Casa Bianchi Particular Malbec
San Rafael 13.9%
Sourced only from San Rafael, this sees more oak than the pan-Mendoza Malbec from the
same winery but has the structure to soak up the barrel staves. Baking spices, plums and
blueberry fruit are complemented by plush tannins and refreshing, tapering acidity. 2016-21
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2014 Casa de Uco Salvaje Malbec
Vista Flores 14.3%
The 2014s from this pioneering new real estate and hotel project won’t be released for a
while, but they are every bit as good as the 2013s. Spicy and aromatic, with the sort of
aromas you find in the garrigue of the Languedoc, this is peppery, intense and refined with
understated oak. 2017-21
2013 Casarena DNA Malbec
Mendoza 14.7%
As its name suggests, this was made with the same massal selection planted in various
different vineyards. It’s a crowd pleasing style with rich, ripe, succulent fruit sweetness,
plenty of aromatic oak and spice and a backbone of tannin. 2016-21
2013 Casarena Jamilla’s Vineyard Malbec
Perdriel 14.5%
Denser and less floral than the Malbec from Lauren’s Vineyard, this comes from a site close
to the Mendoza River. There’s an appealingly green note to the fruit here, bringing a little
freshness to the wine. Plush and rich, but with plenty of acidity and brightness for balance.
2016-22
2013 Catena Alta Historic Rows Malbec
Mendoza 14%
Sourced from four different vineyards in Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley (with the latter
origin dominating the blend), this is made up of 75 lots and is a seamless, aromatic cuvée
from the brilliant Alejandro Vigil. Violets and lavender on the nose segue into flavours of
blueberry and blackberry. 2016-21
2012 Catena Appellation Cabernet Franc
San Carlos 13.5%
The vines in this Los Indios planting at the southern end of the Uco Valley were planted as
recently as 2003, but are already making a very impressive, varietally pure Cabernet Franc.
Deeply coloured, aromatic and refreshing, with notes of spice, blackcurrant and graphite
underpinned by acidity. 2016-21
2014 Catena Appellation Malbec
La Consulta 13.5%
Made from 60-year-old vines situated in the cooler, lower part of La Consulta, this shows
the red and black fruit sweetness that’s a hallmark of the Catena reds, supported by fineboned tannins, deftly handled French oak and plenty of texture. The alcohol is appealingly
restrained, too. 2016-20
Showing the freshness and minerality that’s often a feature of Altamira wines, this is the
finest and most focused of the Catena appellation Malbecs. Sappy and tangy, with sculpted
tannins and scented plum, damson and blackberry fruit underpinned by a chalky bite.
2016-22
2013 Catena Riverstone Malbec Adrianna Vineyard
Uco Valley 14.1%
A new, high end release from the Catena team, this is sourced entirely from the Adrianna
Vineyard in Gualtallary. It’s a lovely combination of sweet, spicy red fruits, vanilla oak and
refreshing, palate-cleansing acidity, with the underlying minerality that’s such as strong
feature of the upper Uco. 2016-22
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2015 Chacra Barda Pinot Noir
Patagonia 13%
Barda is only the “entry point” Pinot at Chacra, but always a lovely drink that often
outperforms most other Argentinean examples of the heartbreak grape. The 2015 release
may be the best yet: bright and elegant, with subtle red fruit sweetness and just a hint of oak
spice. 2016-20
2014 Chakana Estate Selection Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Chakana’s wines are getting better with every vintage under winemaker Gabriel Bloise. This
concrete-fermented Malbec was aged in old oak and is all about fruit and finesse. Minerally,
focused and refreshing, this is long and satisfying with a chalky flourish. 2016-22
2013 Chaman El Vuelo del Chaman Viña Alberico
Gualtallary 14%
My favourite Chaman wines is made with purchased fruit from Tupungato Winelands in
Gualtallary and is a blend of Cabernet Franc with 25% each of whole bunch-fermented
Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Chalky, focused and smooth with haunting perfume and
deftly integrated oak. 2017-23
2013 Colomé Estate Malbec
Salta 14.5%
Colomé’s estate Malbec is a blend of the three special lot wines, with Molinos contributing
the bulk of the cuvée. Showing the freshness of a cooler vintage, this is sappy, savoury and
firm with just a touch of oak, spicy, wild herbs on a serious, focused finish. 2017-23
2014 Corazón del Sol Cab/Cab
Uco Valley 14.5%
As its label suggests, this is an equal blend of Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon, which
confirms the promise of this exciting Uco Valley winery. This is an ambitious, age worthy
style with lots of dark blackberry and damson fruit, fine-grained tannins and leafy, grassy
complexity. The oak is very polished, too. 2016-21
2012 Corazón del Sol Malbec Gran Reserva
Uco Valley 15%
Made by Santiago Achaval, this comes from an up-and-coming Uco Valley project that was
established as recently as 2008. It’s a big step-up on the basic Malbec, showing a winning
combination of violet and lavender on the nose and a poised, focused palate with intense
mint and blueberry notes. 2016-21
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2013 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley 14.2%
Right up there with the very best Syrahs in the country, this comes from young vines planted
in Vista Flores. It’s like an Argentinean Crozes-Hermitage in style, showing black olive, white
pepper and sweet blackberry fruit, with subtle oak and balancing acidity. Promising stuff.
2016-22
Vistalba 14.5%
When you’re using old vine fruit, as Juan Manuel González is here, you don’t need a lot of
timber. Only 20% of this impressive wine sees third-year oak. It’s a pure, scented, complex
wine with notes of Asian spices, some pepper and sweet, perfumed, well balanced berry
flavours. 2016-22
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2012 DiamAndes de Uco Icono
Uco Valley 14.6%
The top wine at this French-owned bodega in Vista Flores is a blend of Malbec with 31%
Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a perfumed and comparatively subtle style, despite the relatively
high alcohol, showing notes of mint, violet and dried herbs, subtle oak and fine tannins.
2016-21
2014 Dominio del Plata Benmarco Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
This is an ambitious wine that is still rather closed at the moment. Sourced from Vista Flores
and Chacayes, it’s all about rich, bramble and blackberry fruit, firm age-worthy tannins and
powerful tannins. This another compact red that’s aimed at the medium to long-term.
2017-23
2014 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature
Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 14%
Cabernet Sauvignons from the upper Uco Valley can be a little too green at times, but that’s
not the case here. It’s certainly showing some grassy notes, but there’s plenty of blackcurrant
fruit weight, tannin and oak for support. Stylish yet firm, this needs a little more time in
bottle. 2017-25
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2014 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec
Mendoza 14%
Made with purchased grapes from Altamira, this impressive, limestone-influenced Malbec
contains 6% Petit Verdot. It’s a scented, well balanced expression of the grape with bright
acidity, crunchy blackberry fruit, well integrated oak and filigree tannins. More evidence of
the change of style here. 2016-21
2014 Doña Paula 1350
Gualtallary 14%
A densely coloured, upper Uco Valley blend of Cabernet Franc with 45% Malbec and 5%
Casavecchia, this is concentrated, tannic and structured, with the fruit power, acidity and
backbone to age further and a chalky undertone. The oak needs a little more time to bed in.
2017-25
2012 Doña Paula El Alto Parcel Malbec
This 44-year-old Ugarteche vineyard is based on clay soils and makes broader, more textured
wines as a result. Plush, supple and ripe, with dense plum and blueberry fruit flavours,
medium weight tannins and excellent oak integration. 2016-21
2012 El Esteco Chañar Punco Malbec
Catamarca 15.5%
Chañar Punco is a cooler zone in Catamarca, located at 2,000 metres. This excellent blend
of Malbec with 35% Cabernet Sauvignon is dense and spicy, with plenty of firm tannins,
concentrated, savoury fruit and some limestone-like freshness. The alcohol seems lower than
it is. 2016-21
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2013 El Esteco Fincas Notables Cabernet Franc
Calchaqui Valley 14.5%
Part of the El Esteco Cabernet Franc goes into the Altimus blend, but here it gets solo billing.
The vineyard was only planted in 2007, but the result shows that the variety works well in
Cafayate as well as Mendoza. Blackcurrant leaf, a hint of green pepper and good grip.
2016-21
2013 El Porvenir de Cafayate El Porvenir Icono
Cafayate 14.5%
Described by owner Lucia Romero as “our family icon” , this is a blend of Malbec with 30%
Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Tannat and 3% Petit Verdot. Made in a cooler vintage, this is still
quite a ripe style, aimed at the US market perhaps, but it’s sweet, dense and well balanced
with attractive oak. 2016-22
2014 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Malbec
Cafayate 14.5%
Sourced from the Finca Río Seco, this is a very polished expression of the grape, showing the
stylish oak integration that’s a feature of properties where Paul Hobbs consults. Scented and
well balanced, with lavender and rosemary aromas, and rich, spicy blueberry fruit. 2017-22
2014 Fabre Montmayou Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Mendoza 14.5%
The polish and poise that are so typical of the Fabre Montmayou style are gloriously in
evidence here on this varietal Cabernet Sauvignon. Notes of chocolate, green pepper and
graphite combine attractively on the palate, with stylish oak, filigree tannins and lovely fruit
weight. 2016-22
2012 Finca Ambrosía Precioso Malbec
Gualtallary 15.5%
Made in small quantities by the team at Altos Las Hormigas, this project is owned by 11
shareholders and is a classic expression of high altitude Gualtallary. Deeply coloured, pepper
spicy and intense, with aromatic herbs, some chalk and assertive but stylish French oak.
2017-24
2014 Finca El Origen Estate Blend
Uco Valley 14.6%
Owned by the Chilean winery, Santa Carolina, this Vista Flores-based bodega makes stylish
reds on this side of the Andes. This almost equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec
is serious, smooth and violet-scented with aromatic clove and pepper spice, plush fruit and
bright acidity. 2016-21
2013 Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Syrah
Tupungato 13.8%
A wine that wouldn’t look out of place in a flight of top-end Rhône Valley reds, this is a
refined, scented Syrah that doesn’t need to try too hard. Crunchy red berry fruit, finegrained tannins, underplayed oak, lots of pepper spice and a tapering, refreshing finish.
2016-21
2012 Finca Sophenia Synthesis The Blend
Tupungato 15%
A complex, stylishly oaked blend of Malbec with 26% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot,
this combines ripe cassis and mulberry fruit notes, firm, but well integrated tannins, good
minerality and plenty of refreshing acidity. 2016-21
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2012 Fuego Blanco Cabernet Franc/Malbec
Pedernal 13.8%
What a delicious wine this is, fully exploiting the quality of the grapes from this high altitude
valley. Mixing Cabernet Franc with 40% Malbec, fermented with 100% whole bunches, this is
dark, dense and complex, with notes of Mediterranean herbs, spicy tannins and a sustained
finish. 2016-21
2013 Fuego Blanco Malbec/Syrah
Pedernal 14.2%
The Millan family only planted these vines in 2004, but this is already looking like one of the
very best sites in San Juan. This 60/40 blend of Malbec with Syrah is fresh, grippy and very
aromatic, with notes of chalky freshness, lavender and oregano, spicy whole bunches and
layered tannins. 2016-21
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Mendoza 15%
Combining grapes from Vistalba and Gualtallary, this is made by Manuel González of
Andeluna and Juan Manuel González of De Angeles, two of the best oenologists in the
country. It’s a rich but refined blend of equal parts Cabernet Franc and Malbec, with dense,
herbal notes and concentrated berry fruit. 2017-21
Gualtallary 15%
This comparatively new, money-is-no-object winery owned by Julio Camsen is also a
boutique hotel. Made by Roberto de la Mota, this is a rich, ripe slightly international style
Malbec with plenty of colour and oak, some savoury, green herb and pepper spice notes and
chalky minerality. 2017-23
Cafayate 13.5%
Made with grapes from a cooler corner of José-Luis Mounier’s home vineyard in Cafayate,
this is a gently oaked, refined Malbec with attractive mulberry and blueberry fruit and less
overt ripeness than many local examples of the grape. 2016-20
2014 José-Luis Mounier Mercedes
Cafayate 13.8%
Named after Señora Mounier, this is a classic Cafayate blend of Malbec with 15% Cabernet
Sauvignon showing abundant wild herb notes of rosemary and thyme, sweet violet and
blackberry fruit, sappy tannins and a hint of green pepper. The tannins are very refined
indeed. 2016-21
2014 La Mascota Cabernet Franc
Cruz de Piedra 14%
La Mascota has made a stand alone Cabernet Franc for the last three vintages and it’s a
hugely impressive expression of the variety. Balanced, refined and very aromatic, with
underplayed oak, notes of violet and green pepper and a spicy, mineral-edged flourish.
2016-20
2014 La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
Cruz de Piedra 14%
Opi Sadler is usually seen as a Malbec specialist, but this shows that he’s equally adept at
making Cabernet Sauvignon. The tannins are particularly fine here, complemented by a note
of whole bunch spice, good focus and palate length and aromatic cassis and graphite flavours.
2016-21
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2013 La Mascota Gran Mascota Malbec
Mendoza 15%
La Consulta supplies most of the fruit for this floral, effortlessly modern Malbec from Opi
Sadler. As ever with his wines, the balance of alcohol, oak, fruit and acidity is exquisitely
judged. Clove spice, violets, lavender and a chalky undertone are complemented by plush
blackberry sweetness. 2016-21
2012 La Mascota Unánime
Uco Valley 14.5%
Unánime is a blend of three grapes, combining Cabernet Sauvignon with 25% Malbec
and 15% Cabernet Franc, all from the southern end of the Uco Valley. It’s more tannic and
concentrated than most of the La Mascota wines, with some clove and nutmeg spice and
lashings of black fruits. 2016-24
2013 Lagarde Primeras Viñas Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Proof, if it were needed, that Luján makes very smart Cabernet Sauvignon in the right spots,
this is rich, dense and well balanced. Dark cassis and damson fruit is complemented by
savoury tannins and refreshing acidity. 2016-20
2013 Lagarde Primeras Viñas Malbec
Combining old vine material from Drummond and Perdriel, this impressive Malbec is way
less oaky than previous releases and all the better for it. It’s smooth and polished, with plenty
of texture, detailed tannins and ripe red fruits sweetness supported by acidity. 2017-21
2014 Leo Borsi Clos Ultralocal Malbec
The best of the three Ultralocal Malbecs from Rhône Valley oenologist, Leo Borsi, this has
alcohol levels that wouldn’t look out of place in Châteauneuf-du-Pape but is balanced by
chalky minerality and crunchy, floral black fruits. An attractive, textured Malbec with violet
and liquorice perfume. 2017-22
2014 Luca G Lot Pinot Noir
Gualtallary 14%
Laura Catena’s Pinot Noir comes from parcels that were planted in 1994 and 1997, using
Dijon and Pommard clones. It’s a subtle, well framed Pinot that’s all about perfume and
finesse, with filigree tannins, raspberry and pomegranate notes and a chalky finish. 2016-20
2014 Manos Negras Quimay
Paraje Altamira 14%
This is a deeply coloured, even inky blend of Malbec and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon from one of
the best spots in the Uco Valley. Compact and focused, it’s all about texture and complexity,
with dark berry and cassis fruit, fine-grained tannins, bright, minerally acidity and a
refreshing finish. 2017-23
2013 Mater Vini Alteza Malbec
Argentina 14.8%
An innovative, cross-regional blend that combines 85% Malbec from Domingo Molina
Hermanos in Salta and 15% from La Consulta in the Uco Valley. Inky and rich, this sees
100% new oak, but doesn’t show it. Savoury, compact and dense, it’s a wine that will develop
considerably in bottle. 2016-22
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2014 Mater Vini Antes Andes Malbec
Calchaqui Valley 15%
Sourced from the picturesque Rupestre Vineyard between Molinos and Cafayate, this shows
the typical Mediterranean herb notes of northern Argentina, with thyme and rosemary on
the nose. Bottled early for freshness, it’s savoury and floral and has the freshness to balance
its ripe, sweet fruit. 2016-21
2014 Mendel Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel 14.5%
The Mendel Cabernet comes from an alluvial vineyard close to the Mendoza River. This is
a little riper than the 2013, but has a similar tannin structure, plenty of Cabernet backbone
and cassis notes, supporting acidity and very good palate length. Another Mendel wine that
is made to age. 2016-23
2014 Mendel Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
This Malbec is one of those wines that never lets you down, even in tricky vintages like 2014.
Serious and complex, it has succulent black fruits, well handled (10% new) oak, notes of dried
herbs, savoury tannins and good supporting acidity. This has the structure to age further.
2016-21
2014 Mendel Petit Verdot
Grafted over from Malbec in 2014, this is one of a comparatively small number of Petit
Verdots in Argentina. There are only 300 bottles made, but it’s a very good expression of the
grape, with compact, grippy tannins, bags of plummy fruit and a firm finish. 2017-23
2013 Michelini Brothers Super Uco Calcáreo Malbec
Chacayes 14%
Darker and more tannic than the Paraje Altamira bottling from the Michelini Brothers, this
comes from the higher part of Vista Flores, otherwise known as Chacayes. Firm, spicy and
focused, with plum and damson fruit and chalky minerality. 2017-21
2013 Moor-Barrio Initium Gran Malbec
La Consulta 14%
One of my discoveries in last year’s report, the Malbec from Cristian Moor and Teresita
Barrio continues to impress in 2013. With nearly half of the wine fermented in stainless
steel, it’s a refreshing, fruit-driven style sourced from a combination of 90 and 10-year-old
vines. Chalky, bright and peppery, this is a wine to drink by the bottle. 2016-21
2014 Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 13.5%
If you’re looking for limestone soil in the Uco Valley, then Altamira should be your
destination. This is all about varietal purity and freshness, with barely any oak at all. Grassy,
fine and complex, with some clove spice and classic blackcurrant and graphite undertones.
2016-22
2014 Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Caliche Blend
Uco Valley 13%
The granite and limestone soils of the upper Uco Valley are deliciously apparent in this blend
of Malbec with 25% each of Pinot Noir and Bonarda. Pepper spice, some whole bunch notes,
understated oak and bright, refreshing damson and blackberry fruit are stylishly combined
here. 2016-21
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2011 Mosquita Muerta
Vista Flores 14%
A great label and an equally delicious wine, combining Malbec with 10% each of Cabernet
Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The spicy, peppery whole bunch character is very
marked here, supplemented by a little oak and crunchy blackberry and plum fruit. 2016-20
2012 Navarro Correas Alegoría Gran Reserva Malbec
Mendoza 14.6%
Navarro use their oldest Malbec plantings in this pan-Mendoza cuvée from Luján and
(mostly) the Uco Valley. It’s another very polished performance, with sweet, almost velvety
tannins, stylish oak integration, and notes of fennel, blackberry and dark plums. 2016-22
2012 Navarro Correas Selección de Enologo Single
Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
The single vineyard in question is in Tunuyán in the Uco Valley. This is denser and more age
worthy than many of the Navarro wines, which tend to focus on more immediate pleasure.
The slight reduction disappears in the glass, revealing a spicy, minty, layered Malbec with
classy oak. 2016-25
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2012 Norton Lote LC112 Malbec
After a break in production in 2011, Norton’s Lote series is back in 2012. This comes from
the La Colonia Vineyard and is the most aromatic of the trio. Dense, rich and textured, with
sweet bramble and blackberry fruit, fine tannins and enough acidity to balance the high
alcohol. 2016-22
2013 Norton Privada
Mendoza 14.5%
Privada, or Privado as it’s known in Brazil, is a three-way blend of Malbec, Merlot and
Cabernet Sauvignon that’s inky, dark and profound, with concentrated black fruits, plenty of
perfume and seamless integration between the varieties. Succulent, smooth and textured, it’s
a delicious glass of wine. 2016-23
2014 Per Se Iubileus Malbec
Gualtallary 14.3%
Edy del Popolo and David Bonomi’s Malbec contains a “few bunches of Cabernet Franc”,
amounting to around 3% of the blend, all from Gualtallary. The vines are still young, but
this is an impressive, perfumed red showing the focus and freshness that’s typical of the
style. The tannins are slightly firm, but this is a rocky, extreme site whose wines need time in
bottle. 2018-24
2013 Piedra Negra Chacayes
Uco Valley 14.5%
François Lurton’s top red wine cuvée combines Malbec (15% of it Côt from Cahors) with 10%
Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 80% new barrels. It’s a dense, serious wine with lots of toasty
oak, savoury tannins and notes of clove and cinnamon underpinned by refreshing acidity.
Needs more time in bottle. 2017-23
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2013 Piedra Negra Gran Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 15%
Picked a month earlier than the 2011 Cabernet and all the better for it, this is blended with
10% Malbec. Its’ a fresher style, despite the high alcohol, with green pepper notes, fine
tannins and clove and cut grass aromatics. This will be released later this year, and is worth
the wait. 2017-23
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Salta 15.5%
Raul Dávalos Junior is the consultant for this stylish, high altitude red, made without oak (of
course). Stefan and Beatrice Moeckli-Buerge’s biodynamic Malbec is one of the stars of Salta,
made from a small plot in the Calchaqui Valley. Plum and bramble fruit is complemented by a
hint of savoury reduction and an orange peel and pepper spice. 2016-20
Agrelo 14.5%
Sourced from Cuartel Ten, as it nearly always is, this is beautifully framed Agrelo Cabernet
Sauvignon, combining notes of fresh tobacco, dried herbs and red fruits with appealing
sweetness, stylish oak and refreshing palate length. Great value, as ever, from the Pulenta
family. 2016-21
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14.5%
Another impressive bottling from Cuartel Ten in the Pulentas’ home vineyard, this used to be
blended into the Gran Corte. Leafy, refined and aromatic, with the volume and fruit weight
that you expect from Agrelo Cabernet, fine tannins and very well integrated new oak.
2016-23
2012 Pulenta Estate Merlot
Agrelo 14.5%
The Pulentas’ Merlot is always among the best examples of the grape in Mendoza, combining
focus and finesse, with scented cinnamon oak, silky tannins and grassy, plummy flavours.
The 50% new barrels are very well integrated on this glossy, polished red. 2016-21
2013 Pyros Single Vineyard Malbec
Pedernal 14%
It’s remarkable to think that this vineyard (Block 4) was only planted in 2008, such is its
quality, density and sense of place. Rich, focused and sappy, with notes of liquorice and wild
thyme, some chalky freshness and compact, almost Cornas-like tannins, it’s a very exciting
Malbec. 2017-22
2013 Revancha La Primera Revancha Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
My favourite of the three Revancha bottlings, this is a cuvée of Malbec with 8% Cabernet
Franc. It’s a stylish Uco Valley red with flavours of mint and dried herbs, fine-grained
tannins and deftly handled oak. Ripe, succulent and well balanced. 2017-22
2014 Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From
The Tree Bonarda
Mendoza 14%
One of the few top Bonardas that comes from the so-called Primera Zona close to the city of
Mendoza, this old vine red is a brilliant expression of an under-rated grape. Subtly oaked and
brambly, with red berry fruit and a savoury undertone. 2016-20
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2014 Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From
The Tree Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
A classic pan-Mendoza blend, using grapes from Perdriel and Gualtallary, this is brimming
with perfume and fruit flavours. There’s very little oak on show here, just sappy, violet-edged
notes of plum and black cherry with underlying freshness. A triumph in a difficult vintage.
2016-20
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2014 Riccitelli Wines Vineyard Selection Malbec
Mendoza 14%
A blend of old vine Malbecs from Las Compuertas, Perdriel and La Consulta, this sees more
oak than most of Matías Riccitelli’s wines, but has the structure, plush tannins and fruit
concentration to cope. Savoury, dense and beautifully balanced, it’s smoky, plummy and
brimming with fruit. 2017-25
2013 Riglos Gran Malbec
Tupungato 14.4%
Intense and deeply coloured, as it usually is, this is a super dense, boldly structured Malbec
that sees 18 months in new and second use barrels. Plum, bramble and blackberry flavours
are complemented by plenty of tannins, bright acidity and a hint of Mediterranean spices.
2017-25
2012 Rutini Encuentro Barrel Blend
Mendoza 14.2%
A blend of the five red Bordeaux grapes, all sourced from the Uco Valley, this is dominated
by Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Dark fruit, notes of green malt, smoky oak and smooth,
polished tannins are underscored by refreshing acidity, suggesting that this will age well.
2016-23
2011 Rutini Single Vineyard Merlot
Paraje Altamira 14%
This won’t be on the market for a while, but it’s so good that I wanted to write about it now.
Mariano di Paola has a special touch with Merlot, making leafy, aromatic, fine-grained wines
with chocolatey oak and impressive focus. The chalky, minerally notes that are so typical of
Paraje Altamira add another dimension to this very well made, polished example. 2016-23
2012 Salentein Gran Vu
Uco Valley 15%
Gran Vu is a blend of Malbec with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, showing more evolution in a hot
year like 2012. This is rich and a slightly fruit-cakey, almost reminiscent of a Napa wine, with
plenty of smoky oak, firmish tannins and enough acidity for balance. 2016-21
2013 Salentein Primus Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 14.5%
For a cooler year, this wine has quite a bit of alcohol and ripe fruit flavours. Made with two
clones of Cabernet (337 and 169) it’s very true to the variety, with firmish, muscular tannins,
dense fig and cassis fruit and marked oak. Needs more time in bottle to integrate. 2017-23
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2013 Salentein Primus Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
Blended from two parts of the large Salentein holdings in the upper Uco Valley, this is ripe
and figgy, with firm, but well-balanced tannins, minerality and undertones of cinnamon and
pepper spice. The acidity on the finish gives the wine much-needed freshness and bite.
2016-23
2013 SonVida Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
As ex-ITN foreign correspondent David Smith’s vineyards mature so his wines are
developing more weight and focus. This Paraje Altamira Malbec is a step up on the 2012,
but has the same freshness, balance and poise. Sweet vanilla oak, flavours of thyme and
rosemary, filigree tannins and bright acidity are appealingly intertwined here. 2016-21
2014 Terrazas de los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Mendoza 14.3%
Tasted en primeur at the winery, this stylish Cabernet Sauvignon hails from Perdriel and
Eugenio Bustos. It’s aromatic and fine, with polished tannins, bright acidity and classic notes
of cassis, cut grass and graphite. It’s tempting to see a French touch here, given LVMH’s
ownership. 2017-24
2011 Terrazas de los Andes Single Parcel Los Cerezos Malbec
Sourced from Los Cerezos in the highest part of Las Compuertas, this is an inky,
concentrated, almost shuttered wine that needs time in bottle. Smoky oak, dried herbs and
compact plum, fig and damson fruit are complemented by notes of tobacco leaf and vanilla.
2017-24
2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Paraje Altamira 14%
Sourced from the stony part of the vineyard, this varietal Cabernet Franc is a classic Uco
Valley expression of the variety, combining stylish oak with leafy, grassy, spicy fruit flavours
and smooth tannins. Aromatic and pure with good underlying grip and structure. 2016-23
2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard El Limo Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
El Limo comes from a parcel of river silt that’s the coldest, coolest part of the La Escuela
Vineyard. Picked last, it’s a rich, dense, flavoursome Malbec with dark, savoury damson and
blackberry fruit, stylish, well-integrated oak and a spicy, floral, clove and pepper-like lift.
2017-24
2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Grava Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
Sourced from the largest part of the La Escuela Vineyard with a terroir dominated by small
stones, this has more grip than the bottling from sand. Clove and white pepper notes are
complemented by savoury dark fruits, good structure and subtle, understated oak. 2017-23
2013 Tukma Gran Corte
Cafayate 13.8%
There’s only 15% Tannat in this Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend, but it
brings rigour and focus to the cuvée. Raspberry and plum fruit flavours are complemented by
stylish oak and a bright, refreshing finish. A cuvée that doesn’t show the joins. 2016-21
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2014 Vaglio Alto Cabernet Franc
Agrelo 14%
The Alto in this wine’s name refers to Alto Agrelo, which is where this varietal Cabernet
Franc comes from. It’s very typical of the grape, with capsicum and graphite notes, violet and
rose petal aromas, firm but well-integrated tannins and refreshing acidity. One of the best
Luján Cabernet Francs. 2016-23
2014 Ver Sacrum GSM
Vista Flores 14%
This GSM (Grenache with 25% each of Syrah and Mourvèdre) is the most complex of the Ver
Sacrum wines, fermented in open barrels. Spicy, nuanced and balanced with flavours that
are almost Pinot Noir-like in texture and subtlety, it’s a wine that should inspire more people
to plant Rhône grapes. 2016-19
2012 Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Malbec
Perdriel 15%
The “home” vineyard in Perdriel (on the border with Agrelo) has old vines and clay and
alluvial soils. The result is a big, bold, fruit-packed Malbec with effortless concentration, ripe
bramble and black fig-like fruit, smooth, textured tannins and an appealing volatile lift.
2016-21
2014 Viña Vida Business Class Gran Reserva
Uco Valley 14.5%
One of several Argentinean wineries at which consultant Roberto de la Mota works his
magic, Viña Vida is famous for plantings its vineyards in a circle, but should be better known
for the quality of its wines. Intense, focused and complex, this is quite oaky, yet has the
concentration and acidity to age. 2017-24
2014 Viñalba Malbec/Syrah
Patagonia 14.5%
The Syrah component here only accounts for 20% of the blend, but it’s prominent and
distinctive enough to make you wonder why more people don’t plant it in Patagonia. Clove
and pepper spice aromas add complexity to the cool climate raspberry and summer berry
flavours. 2016-21
2014 Viñalba Malbec/Touriga Nacional Reserva
Uco Valley 14.5%
Formerly known as Cuvée Couture, this is now more transparently labelled with the names
of its constituent grape varietyes, allowing Touriga (overseen by Portuguese consultant, Rui
Reguinga) its place in the sun. It’s a lovely wine, showing notes of bramble, blood orange and
violet, subtle oak and tangy acidity. 2016-23
2006 Weinert Cabernet Sauvignon
There’s something gloriously old-fashioned about the Weinert style - think López de Heredia
in Rioja - but I love the unhurried, dusty complexity of the wines. This is mature, savoury
and sweet with Cabernet acidity and lots of layers. 2016-19
2006 Weinert Malbec
This hugely appealing Malbec spends three years in large oak casks and comes from vines
that are over 70 years old. Gloriously traditional, with a hint of volatility, fine tannins, a
core of succulent raspberry sweetness and a savoury, umami-like undertone. Deliciously
drinkable. 2016-19
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2014 Zorzal Eggo Filoso Pinot Noir
Gualtallary 13.1%
A left field Pinot Noir, made with 100% stems and entirely fermented in concrete, the Eggo
red is spicy, fine and discreet, with pale colour, refreshing acidity and pomegranate and
redcurrant fruit flavours. 2016-20
2014 Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza
Tupungato 14.5%
Tinto de Tiza is a blend of Malbec with 7% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc,
fermented with 30% whole bunches. It’s a precise, focused wine with chiselled tannins, the
chalky acidity that’s typical of Gualtallary and a backbone of firm, but fine-grained tannins.
2016-22
2013 Zorzal Gran Terroir Pinot Noir
Tupungato 14%
Including some fruit from San Pablo for the first time, this impressive Pinot Noir is
fermented with 20% whole bunches and aged mostly in older oak. Sappy, spicy and floral,
with a backbone of tannin and succulent red berry fruit. This was also tasted last year, but is
still showing well. 2016-19
2014 Zuccardi Tito
Uco Valley 14%
Co-fermented Malbec with 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Caladoc and 4% Ancellotta and 50%
whole bunches: this is the most left field Zuccardi wine, all made in cement. Pepper spice, sap
and silky red and black fruits, with some backbone from the Cabernet Sauvignon. Another
impressive wine. 2016-22
2012 Abremundos Octava Superior
Mendoza 14.5%
This is the best as well as the most expensive of the Abremundos wines, marrying Cabernet
Franc with 20% Malbec and 5% Syrah. Grassy, refined and aromatic, it’s a polished,
refreshing style with well-integrated oak, fresh acidity and good ageing potential. 2016-22
2014 Alta Vista Estate Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Alta Vista’s wines are always among the most stylish as well as age worthy in Mendoza. This
is far from the top wine here, but it’s extremely well judged, showing a lovely combination of
perfume, integrated oak, ripe black fruits and fine tannins.
2017-21
2013 Alta Vista Terroir Selection Malbec
Mendoza 15%
The Terroir Selection is picked later and sees more oak than the Estate Malbec. It’s an
ambitious wine that’s made to age but is still showing slightly drying tannins at the moment.
The underlying acidity and blackberry fruit intensity suggest that the wine will integrate over
the next two years. 2017-23
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Terroir
Uco Valley 14%
Like all of the Altos reds, this Gualtallary Malbec shows very little oak on the nose or palate.
Sappy, tangy and low in alcohol, with some limestone-derived minerality, supple raspberry
and red cherry fruit and a balanced, tangy finish. Continues the winery’s move towards
greater elegance. 2016-20
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2014 Altos Terruños
Calchaqui Valley 15%
Spread over four vineyards and three provinces (Tucumán, Salta and Catamarca), with 370
kilometres between them, Agustín Lanus’ project was launched in 2013. The 2014 is an
impressive pure Malbec, half of which sees oak. Dense and deeply coloured, it’s an ambitious,
scented wine with succulent tannins, some toast and vanilla and rich, crunchy fruit. 2017-21
2013 Andeluna Pasionado Malbec
Mendoza 14.4%
The top Malbec at Andeluna (at least for now) is wonderfully fragrant and full of personality.
It’s a big, bold wine showing masses of blackberry and liquorice notes, underpinned by the
chalky acidity that’s such a strong feature of Gualtallary reds. The oak is increasingly subtle
on these wines. 2017-23
2014 Atamisque Catalpa Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 14.5%
The Catalpa Pinot Noir is made entirely from the Burgundian 777 clone and is aged in second
use oak. Pale in colour, but not short of perfume or flavour intensity, it’s subtle, complex and
refined, unfurling raspberry and tomato leaf flavours. 2016-19
2012 Atamisque Petit Verdot
Uco Valley 14.8%
Petit Verdots are pretty sparse on the ground in Argentina, although the grape has the
right combination of acidity and fruit weight to do well here. This is a firm, typically tannic
expression of the variety, but has the requisite balance and fruit weight to compensate.
2017-21
2013 Avarizza Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.4%
An impressively aromatic Malbec from young oenologists, Agostina Astegiano and Fabricio
Hernández. Silky, subtle and refined, this is balanced and refreshing, with red berry and
plum fruit flavours supported and sustained by acidity. 2017-20
2013 Bodega del Desierto Pampa Malbec
La Pampa 14.9%
Planted as recently as 2003, this impressive, isolated vineyard is starting to deliver in
the glass. Nuanced, complex and refreshing, it has plenty of colour, granular tannins and
crunchy blackberry and damson fruit flavours supported by stylish, refined oak.
2016-21
2013 Bodega Teho Zaha Malbec Toko Vineyard
Paraje Altamira 13.9% 9
This is a blend of three different soil types and contains 7% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit
Verdot, all of it from Paraje Altamira. Ripe and well balanced, with good underlying acidity
and an undertow of tannin, it finishes with a refreshing, almost saline freshness. 2017-22
2012 Bodega Vistalba Tomero Gran Reserva Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
The top wine in the Tomero line up comes from Los Alamos in the Uco Valley and sees 22
months in mostly new French barrels. Mint, Asian spices and vanilla combine appealingly
on the palate, with plenty of sweet oak and sumptuous tannins. Possibly a little too much of a
good thing? 2016-21
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2013 Bodega Vistalba Tomero Malbec Reserva
Uco Valley 15%
Sourced from the winery’s vineyards at Los Alamos in the Uco Valley, this pure Malbec sees
50% new oak for 15 months. The ripeness of the fruit is complemented by chalky acidity, with
extremely polished tannins and expertly handled oak. Floral and beguiling, this is a crowd
pleaser. 2016-20
2013 Bressia Monteagrelo Malbec
Agrelo 14.5%
Combining grapes from Agrelo and the Uco Valley is something of a Bressia speciality, with
plushness balanced by acidity and minerality. This is a little on the oaky side right now, but
has attractive red berry and bramble fruit, fine tannins and refreshing balancing acidity.
2016-21
2011 Bressia Profundo
Luján de Cuyo 15%
This is the tenth vintage of this Malbec-based blend (with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10%
Merlot and 10% Syrah for company in 2011). It’s a sweet, rich, oaky cuvée that’s marked by
its predominantly Agrelo origins, with some Uco freshness lifting the finish. The oak is quite
prominent here, but there’s enough richness of dark berry fruits to soak it up. 2016-21
2014 Casa Bianchi Famiglia Bianchi Malbec
Mendoza 14.3%
The Bianchis blend fruit from their home turf of San Rafael with 20% from the Uco Valley
in this scented, serious, well-structured Malbec. Smooth tannins, stylish oak and supple
blueberry and raspberry flavours combine appealingly here. 2016-20
2013 Casa de Uco Salvaje Malbec
Vista Flores 14.3%
This new project in the higher part of Vista Flores has certainly hit the ground running,
helped by the winemaking skills of Alberto Antonini. Spicy, aromatic and refined, this has
very subtle oak integration, summer berry fruit and a spicy, refreshing finish.
2016-20
2013 Casarena Jamilla’s Vineyard Syrah
Perdriel 14.5%
Jamilla’s Vineyard is located right in front of the winery and consistently produces some
of Casarena’s best wines. This is the first vintage of this wine, and it’s very promising, with
restrained alcohol, some white pepper and clove spice, deftly integrated oak and a chalky
undertone. 2016-21
2013 Casarena Lauren’s Vineyard Petit Verdot
Agrelo 14.9%
This has the inky colour and firmish tannins you expect from a Petit Verdot, plenty of
perfume and impressive concentration. It’s a little drying on the finish, but that may soften
with time, given the fruit weight on offer here. 2017-22
Vista Flores 13.5%
One of four different Malbecs in the appellation series, this comes from alluvial soils to the
north of the village of Vista Flores. Aged in 35% new oak, it’s smooth and well balanced, with
fine tannins, lots of blackberry fruit and well integrated vanilla spice. A crowd pleaser.
2016-20
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Lunlunta 13.5%
You’d expect a Malbec from more easterly, warmer Lunlunta to be a little less well defined
that those from the Uco Valley, but that’s not the case here, thanks to a combination of old
vines and earlier picking. Plush and violet scented, this is a rich, textured, satisfying red at a
very reasonable price. 2016-20
2012 Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec
Uco Valley 14.3%
Argentino combines fruit from the Adriana and Nicasia Vineyards and includes a little
Cabernet Franc and Viognier, as well as 20% whole bunches. It’s sweet, plush and very
smooth, with a touch of Asian spice and mouth-caressing fruit. A wine that’s made to appeal
to the US market above all. 2016-22
2013 Chacra Mainqué Merlot
Río Negro 14%
Interplanted among the Pinot vines at Chacra, this varietal Merlot is much improved in 2013.
It’s still showing quite a bit of oak, all of it new, yet there’s also plenty of attractive black
cherry, capsicum and plum fruit allied to fine tannins. 2016-20
2013 Chaman El Vuelo del Chaman Viña Delfina
La Consulta 13.9%
An equal, co-fermented blend of Malbec and Petit Verdot, all of it from the Reginatos’
vineyard in La Consulta, this is spicy and perfumed, with stylish oak, some spice from whole
bunches and a balanced, energetic, vinous finish. 2016-21
2013 Chaman Red Blend
La Consulta 13.9%
Luis and Pepe Reginato’s small winery is making some impressive reds at the moment. This
cuvée of Petit Verdot with Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon is spicy and fruit
forward, with chalky freshness and juicy blackberry and bramble fruit, part of which sees
carbonic maceration. 2016-21
2013 Clos de los Siete
Mendoza 14.5%
2013 wasn’t the easiest vintage in Mendoza, but Clos de los Siete shows impressive
consistency from year to year. This Malbec-dominated blend with 23% Merlot, 12% Cabernet
Sauvignon, 8% Syrah and 4% Petit Verdot is more than the sum of its parts, showing fine oak
and ripe, spicy, bramble and blackberry fruit. 2016-20
2013 Colomé Lote Especial Malbec La Brava
Cafayate 14.5%
La Brava is the lowest in altitude of Colomé’s three special lots, planted on sandy soils. It’s a
bright, aromatic wine, with classic “garrigue” notes of rosemary and lavender, a core of sweet
red berry fruit and subtle oak. Not a blockbuster, but this is very appealing to drink young.
2016-20
2011 Colomé Reserva Malbec
Salta 15.9%
You wouldn’t accuse this wine, made from very low yielding vineyards between 100 and 150
years old, of being shy and retiring. It’s a little too oaky for my taste, but the underlying fruit
is powerful, rich and concentrated, so the toasty notes should integrate over the next year or
two. 2017-21
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2014 Corazón del Sol Luminoso
Uco Valley 14.79%
Luminoso is one of Argentina’s very few GSM blends, combining equal quantities of
Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. This is floral, sweet and very aromatic, with pure red berry
flavours, a twist of nutmeg spice and fine-grained tannins. An Uco Valley take on a good
Cairanne. 2016-20
2012 Corazón del Sol Soleado
Uco Valley 14.8%
Soleado is Dr Madaiah Revana’s Bordeaux-style blend, combining Malbec with 26.5%
Cabernet Franc, 20% Merlot and 6.5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s yet another fine red from this
youthful Uco Valley operation, with deftly integrated oak, good focus and balance and minty
plum and tobacco notes. 2016-22
2014 De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Vistalba 14.5%
Sourced from Parcel Four of this remarkable vineyard, this unoaked Cabernet Sauvignon
is the most forward wine in the range, but isn’t short of concentration or backbone. Subtle,
leafy and perfumed with fine-grained tannins and appealing red fruit sweetness. Typically
well balanced. 2016-21
2015 DiamAndes de Uco Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
There’s five per cent Syrah in this wine in 2015, as well as 50% new oak. Further evidence
that this winery is making exciting progress under oenologist Federico Bizzotto, it’s a spicy,
refreshing, richly fruity wine with well-integrated barrels and the backbone to age. 2017-22
2014 Domaine Bousquet Malbec Grande Reserve
Tupungato 15%
This organically grown Malbec also contains 5% each of Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s
fresher than its alcohol level would suggest, with a core of berry fruit sweetness, scented
oak and a chalky, mineral frisson. Nuanced winemaking from a winery that gets better with
every vintage. 2016-21
2014 Dominio del Plata Benmarco Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 14%
Like the Ben Marco Malbec, this wine can’t be faulted for lack of ambition. It’s a blend of
grapes from Gualtallary and Los Arboles, built to age in bottle. Compact and quite firm, it
shows notes of mint, capsicum and blackcurrant, with an overlay of French oak. Needs time.
2017-24
2013 Doña Paula 1100
San Carlos 14.1%
As its label suggests, this comes from the lower, southern end of the Uco Valley at 1,100
metres. It’s a blend of Malbec with 30% Syrah and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, showing
well integrated oak, plenty of perfume and herbal, spicy plum and blackberry flavours
complemented by acidity. 2016-23
2014 Doña Paula Estate Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
Sourced from Los Indios and Gualtallary, at opposite ends of the Uco Valley, this is a lightly
oaked, modern style of Malbec with plenty of perfume, sculpted tannins, some violet and
pepper spice notes and textured berry fruit. 2016-19
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2012 El Esteco Altimus
Cafayate 15%
The blend of Altimus changes from year to year, but is usually dominated by Malbec with
Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc for support. Compact, concentrated and richly
oaked, it’s an ambitious wine that spends 18 months in French oak. Dark, firm and grippy, it
needs more time in bottle. 2017-22
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Corte Innovación
Cafayate 14.5%
Using Cabernet Franc purchased from Grace and 40% of their own Malbec, the Porvenir
team has made a delicious blend. It’s riper and softer than some of the cuvées you taste
in Mendoza, but still has classic cut grass and graphite notes complemented by supple
2013 El Relator Gran Premio
La Consulta 13.5%
El Relator is a small, up-and-coming project owned by journalist and horse breeder,
Fernando Gabriel. His top red is a cuvée of Tempranillo and Malbec, all from La Consulta.
Smooth, complex and confidently oaked, this is a refreshing, well balanced red with stony
minerality. 2016-20
2015 Escorihuela Gascón 1884 Malbec
Mendoza 14%
Every bit as good as the 2014 release, this is everything you want a well-priced Argentinean
Malbec to be. Plush, aromatic and deeply coloured, with velvety, mouth-coating tannins,
succulent bramble and blueberry fruit and deftly handled oak. It looks great, too. 2016-19
2014 Escorihuela Gascón Don Miguel Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
An ambitiously priced wine that appears to be aimed squarely at the American palate, this
is a big, bold strapping Malbec with lashings of aromatic oak, ripe blueberry and blackberry
fruit and succulent tannins. It’s crying out for steak. 2016-21
2014 Fabre Montmayou HJ Fabre Barrel Selection
Cabernet Sauvignon
Patagonia 14.5%
Picked a month later than Hervé and Diane Joyaux-Fabre’s vineyards in Mendoza, this
Patagonian Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Río Negro side of the region. It’s suitably
grassy and refreshing with stylish oak, notes of mint and green herbs and fine-boned
tannins. 2016-22
2013 Filus Bodega y Viñedos Filus Reserva
Mendoza 15%
The Filus Reserva is sourced from La Consulta and Gualtallary and, as you’d expect, sees
more recent oak than the straight Malbec. It’s another very impressive wine, showing the
minerality of the high Uco Valley, fine herbal perfume, crunchy berry fruit and a chalky
flourish. 2017-22
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2011 Fin del Mundo Special Blend
Neuquén 14.5%
The Special Blend is where global consultant, Michel Rolland, has the greatest influence.
It’s a blend of equal parts Malbec and Merlot with 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, ripe, fleshy
fruit, attractive oak integration and cassis and blueberry fruit. Stylish winemaking from
Patagonia. 2016-20
2013 Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Petit Verdot
Agrelo 14.5%
The latest in an impressive run of Petit Verdots from Decero, this is densely coloured
and very aromatic, with some but not too much of the variety’s firm tannins, leafy,
savoury aromatics and dark, chunky plum and damson fruit. 2017-21
2013 Finca Decero Amano
Agrelo 14.5%
Decero’s icon wine combines Malbec with 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and
3% Tannat, aged in 100% new oak, as these things tend to be. Mint, oregano and toasty
vanilla spice are complemented by fine-grained tannins and plenty of red and black fruit
concentration. 2016-22
2014 Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Malbec
Agrelo 14.5%
The Remolinos Vineyard appears to be a very good site for all of the Bordeaux varieties,
but Malbec really stands out here. Perfumed and well balanced, like all of Tomás Hughes’
reds, this is stylish and sensitively oaked. Balanced and refreshing, it has notes of violets
and pepper and fine-grained tannins. 2016-20
2013 Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Syrah
Agrelo 14.5%
This Swiss-owned winery makes one of the best Syrahs in Mendoza from an estate
in the higher part of Agrelo. Fresh, clove and white pepper spice are underpinned by
attractive French oak, tangy acidity and classic tapenade and blackberry flavours.
2016-21
2013 Finca La Anita Varúa Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 15.7%
This top of the range Agrelo Cabernet certainly doesn’t stint on the alcohol. There’s no
denying that it’s a ripe style, but the tannic backbone and acidity of the variety provide
balance and freshness for the savoury fruit concentration. Serious and structured, this
should age well. 2017-22
2013 Finca Quara Single Vineyard Viña Cabra Corral Malbec
Cafayate 14%
Another finely balanced red from Pancho Lavaque, who seems to have the knack of
finding freshness in the heat of Cafayate. Aromatic and refined, this is succulent red
berry flavours, subtle French and American oak, some thyme and oregano and bright,
refreshing acidity. 2016-20
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2013 Finca Sophenia Synthesis Malbec
Tupungato 15%
Overseen by the unlikely combination of Matiás Michelini and Michel Rolland, two
oenologists with very different approaches, this floral, high altitude Malbec has bright plum
and blackberry fruit, well-integrated oak and good freshness and minerality. It should age
well, too. 2016-23
2014 Gen de Alma Crua Chan Malbec
Crua Chan is a new addition to the Gen di Alma range, sourced entirely from Altamira and
aged for six months in old oak. It’s a deliberately dry, sappy, savoury style of Malbec, with
food friendly, grainy tannins and a long, refreshing finish. 2016-21
2014 Gen de Alma Otra Piel
Gualtallary 14%
An unusual, and quite possibly unique, assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 30% Cabernet
Sauvignon and 10% Pinot Noir, with some whole bunch spice and fermentation in amphorae,
this unoaked blend is sappy and tangy, with grassy red fruits and refreshing, chalky
minerality. 2016-20
2012 Gimenez Rilli Joyas de Familia
Vista Flores 14%
One of the top wines from the Vines of Mendoza project in Vista Flores, this is a blend of
Malbec with 25% Syrah, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. It’s a poised,
refreshing, stylishly oaked blend with fine tannins, notes of blood orange, plum and
blackberry and a spicy flourish. 2016-21
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Mendoza 15%
An ambitious, high-end Malbec from Vistalba, this is entirely aged in new French oak. It’s a
compact, serious red that will need some time to emerge from under the barrel staves, but
has dense, scented, plum, blackberry and orange peel-scented fruit and tannic focus.
2018-23
Mendoza 14.5%
Kaikén’s Cabernet Franc comes from Vista Flores and is a ripe, well-upholstered expression
of this increasingly fashionable grape. Grassy, graphite aromas, dense, compact tannins, well
handled oak and balancing acidity impress on the palate. 2017-21
2014 Leo Borsi Clos Ultralocal Malbec
Vista Flores 15%
Grown on volcanic soils in Chacayes, in the upper part of Vista Flores, this has impressive
grip, a rocky, minerally intensity and dark, spicy, brooding fruit flavours. Firm, yet
concentrated, this is a wine to cellar for a year or more. 2017-24
2014 Luca Beso de Dante
Uco Valley 14%
A stylish cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon with 35% Malbec and 15% Cabernet Franc, this sees
more oak than some of the Luca reds, but has the structure to cope. Firm yet well balanced,
with notes of graphite and dried herbs, it’s a wine that will develop well in bottle. 2017-23
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2012 Luca Nico by Luca Viñedos Rosas Malbec
La Consulta 14%
Laura Catena’s La Consulta red comes from a parcel of 80-year-old vines, and the
concentration shows in the glass. Serious, compact and tannic, with dark, structured
blackberry and damson fruit, stylish oak and a firm finish. 2017-21
2014 Manos Negras Red Soil Select Pinot Noir
Neuquén 13.9%
As described on the label, this comes from patches of darker soil within Alejandro Sejanovich
and Jeff Mausbach’s vineyard. Think of it as an Argentinean Pommard if you like, with wild,
savoury aromas, ferrous grip and plenty of supporting red berry fruit. 2016-20
2013 Marcelo Miras Trousseau Nouveau
Alto Valle de Río Negro 13.5%
Planted as long ago as 1977, this is the only Trousseau I’ve tasted to date from Argentina.
Made without oak, it’s a delicate, scented, refined red with very little colour, but hauntingly
fragrant pepper and red berry flavours. (A candidate for a really tricky blind tasting exam!)
2016-19
2013 Marcelo Pelleriti Malbec Reserve
Uco Valley 14.5%
The oldest grapes used to make this impressive Uco Valley wine date back to 1908, the
youngest to 2011. It’s an older oak-aged, winningly aromatic Malbec with fine-grained
tannins, dense, dark plum and blackberry fruit and the concentration to age further in bottle.
2016-21
2015 Mariano di Paola Mapema Malbec/Tempranillo
La Consulta 14%
It’s good to see someone making a 50/50 blend of Malbec and Tempranillo, given the history
of the two varieties in the Uco Valley. This shows old vine concentration, complemented by
chocolatey oak, attractive pepper spice, blackberry and liquorice notes and refreshing acidity.
2016-21
2013 Michelini Brothers Super Uco Calcáreo Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
It’s sometimes difficult to work out which Michelini brother does what, but all of them seem
to have had a hand in this Paraje Altamira Malbec. Balanced, refreshing and chalky with
focus and an elegance and fruit profile that wouldn’t look out of place in a Pinot Noir.
2016-20
2013 Monteviejo Lindaflor Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
There’s been a slight shift in style at this bodega towards earlier picking and a little more
freshness, to the benefit of the wines in my opinion. This is a firm, concentrated, ambitious
red that’s made to age with rich, savoury black fruits and refreshing acidity. Look out for the
2014. 2017-22
2013 Monteviejo Petite Fleur Blend
Uco Valley 14.5%
Like the straight Malbec under the same label, this cuvée of Malbec with 30% Merlot and
10% each of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah is appealingly well balanced in 2013. Fine, but
serious tannins, scented blackberry, cassis and raspberry fruit and a touch of clove spice
from whole bunches. 2017-21
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2013 Monteviejo Petite Fleur Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
The combination of a cooler vintage and the desire to make fresher wines at Monteviejo have
both contributed to the quality of the bodega’s second wine. Subtle and aromatic, with some
spice from 10% whole bunches, this is a very stylish, polished red from Marcelo Pelleriti, with
the tannic structure to age further in bottle. 2017-22
2013 Mythic Vineyards Mythic Barrel
Mendoza 14.5%
The Mythic Barrel is the one one chosen because it stands out in the cellar, apparently.
My guess is that it’s made of new oak, because this is a dense, age-worthy wine with a
combination of ripe, fleshy fruit, firmish, structured tannins and toasty, chocolatey notes
balanced by chalky acidity. 2016-20
2013 Mythic Vineyards Mythic Block Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
It’s not always easy to distinguish between the various Mythic labels, but this one is more
self-explanatory, being a selection of parcels. It’s a soft, ripe, sensuous red, showing quite a
bit of alcohol, lowish acidity and plenty of plum and blackberry fruit. 2016-20
2014 Mythic Vineyards Mythic Vineyard Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Ripe, yet focused and showing a mineral undertow, Bernardo Bossi’s pan-Mendoza Malbec
blend has plenty of bramble and blueberry fruit sweetness, sensitively used oak and a palatecleansing frisson of chalk. Attractive modern Malbec. 2016-21
2014 Navarro Correas Colección Privada Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 13.5%
Remarkable value for money from this much improved winery, this is a cuvée of Uco Valley
and (40%) Agrelo fruit that combines understated oak with leafy, refreshing, yet very
approachable red fruit sweetness and savoury tannins. Spicy and long on the palate. 2016-19
2012 Navarro Correas Selección de Parcelas Cabernet Sauvignon
Gualtallary 14%
There are four sources here - Agrelo, Los Arboles, La Consulta and Gualtallary - contributing
to yet another stylish, good value red from this Trapiche-owned operation. Subtle vanilla
oak, filigree tannins, bright acidity and red berry and blackcurrant leaf notes combine
appealingly here. 2016-20
2013 Navarro Correas Selección de Parcelas Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
A blend of three vineyards in three different sub-regions of Mendoza - Agrelo, Los Arboles
and La Consulta - this is much more than the sum of its parts. Sappy, smooth and attractive
with fine-grained tannins, stylish oak and a chalky undertone. The oak is very well
integrated here. 2016-20
2013 O Fournier Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
O Fournier’s top wine is a varietal Malbec, which spends 16 months in new oak. It’s a big,
bold, rich wine with plenty of violet perfume and concentrated black fruits and the density,
tannins and acidity to age. Needs more time in bottle. 2016-22
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2013 Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Contract
Agrelo 14.5%
Sourced from a parcel of 90-year-old Malbec vines, fermented in concrete eggs, this is made
with purchased grapes. It’s a dense, rich, savoury style, with plenty of ripe, fig and bramble
fruit flavours, dense tannins and good concentration. 2016-19
2012 Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Malo
Agrelo 15%
The winningly named Malo (bad in Spanish) is a cuvée of Malbec with 20% each of Merlot
and Petit Verdot this year. It’s a rich, ripe, supple, brambly style that shows very little oak but
plenty of fig and red strawberry sweetness. Deliciously drinkable. 2016-19
2011 Piedra Negra Gran Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
Blending Argentinean Malbec with 30% Côt (a Malbec selection brought from Cahors), this is
a serious, muscular Malbec that combines grapes from Chacayes and La Consulta. Powerful,
rich and serious with ripe, slightly figgy fruit flavours, some pepper spice and a tannic
backbone. 2016-23
2012 Pulenta Estate Gran Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 14.5%
This comes from a good site in Los Arboles, close to the Salentein plantings. It sees ten
months in 100% new oak - although it doesn’t show it - and has 10% whole bunches. Smooth
and spicy with raspberry and wild strawberry sweetness and refreshing underlying acidity.
2016-19
2013 Pulenta Estate Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
A textbook blend of Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo fruit, this is a hugely drinkable Malbec
that builds and builds on the palate. Violet and lavender aromas segue into succulent
tannins, fine oak and raspberry, black cherry and blueberry fruit. 2016-21
2012 Pulenta Estate Red Blend
Mendoza 14.5%
Made for the first time in 2012, this Malbec-based blend also contains Cabernet Sauvignon
with a touch of Merlot and Petit Verdot. Perfumed, mineral-edged and smooth, it’s much
more than the sum of its components, framed by subtle oak and showing ripe, textured fruit
flavours. 2017-23
2013 Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Finca La Zulema Malbec
Agrelo 14.5%
One of three single vineyard Malbecs from Pulenta Estate, this is sourced entirely from
Agrelo and is classically smooth, ripe and plush. Attractive liquorice and summer berry
flavours are framed by 80% new oak, supple tannins and a tapering, balanced finish.
2017-23
2013 Puramun Co-Fermentado Blend
Mendoza 14.5%
Pepe Galante’s focused, chalky, backward red is a co-fermented blend of Malbec with 33%
Petit Verdot, showing the firmness that’s typical of the latter grape. This is a serious, focused,
grown up wine displaying polished tannins, ripe blueberry and black cherry fruit and lovely
minerality. 2017-23
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2014 Pyros Barrel Selected Malbec
Pedernal 14.5%
Pyros’ structured, stony, deeply coloured Malbec is further proof that the Pedernal Valley is a
thrilling wine region. Aged in old oak to allow the fruit free rein, it’s wild and aromatic, with
plush tannins, good grip, damson and blackberry fruit and a long, minerally finish. Great
value, too. 2016-23
2014 Pyros Barrel Selected Syrah
Pedernal 14%
San Juan’s windy, high altitude Pedernal Valley is rapidly emerging as the best place to grow
Syrah in Argentina. This meaty, savoury, tapenade and blackberry-like example is vibrant,
structured and stony, with grippy but fine tannins. 2016-21
2013 Revancha La Gran Revancha
Mendoza 14.5%
Combining Malbec with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot,
this is the top wine from Roberto and Rodrigo de la Mota. Aromatic and focused, with
youthful, vigorous tannins, subtle toasty oak and plenty of crunchy black fruits. Needs time.
2017-23
2015 Riccitelli Wines Hey! Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
You’ve got to love this wine, with its action hero label, deep colour and intense perfume.
Essence of modern Mendoza Malbec, with smooth tannins, a grocer’s windowful of
blueberry, plum and blackberry fruit and just a touch of oak. 2016-20
2013 Riccitelli Wines Riccitelli & Father
Mendoza 14.5%
An equal collaboration between Matias and Jorge Riccitelli (who is the cellar master
at Norton), this is an 80/20 blend of Malbec and Cabernet Franc, using fruit from Las
Compuertas and Vista Flores. It’s a firm, backward, age-worthy style with layers of dark
berry flavours and plenty of tannin. 2017-25
2014 Rutini Antología XLII
Uco Valley 14.2%
Combining Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and 5% Pinot
Noir from Paraje Altamira, this is a super dense, oaky red with plenty of structure, compact
tannins, undertones of clove and nutmeg and figgy, dark fruit flavours. Needs time to come
together. 2017-24
2013 Rutini Colección Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 13.8%
Given Mariano di Paola’s obvious affinity for Bordeaux grapes, it’s surprising that this is only
the second vintage of this Tupungato Cabernet Franc. Deeply coloured and very aromatic,
with green herbs and graphite in evidence, this is smooth, plush and confidently oaked.
2016-23
2014 Rutini Colección Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
It’s to winemaker Mariano di Paola’s credit that he can produce 100,000 cases of a wine
of this quality, made from equal percentages of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. Modern,
aromatic and stylishly oaked, with dark plum and green pepper flavours combining to good
effect on the palate. 2016-20
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2014 Salentein Barrel Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 14%
Unmistakeably Cabernet, but with a hint of Mediterranean herbs adding another aromatic
dimension, this is smooth and sensitively oaked with the fine-grained tannins that are a
Salentein speciality and impressive palate length. 2016-21
2014 Salentein Barrel Selection Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
A wine that’s so delicious you almost want to drink it now, this is a pure, focused, elegant
Malbec that’s typical of the Pepe Galante style. Perfumed, complex and pepper spicy, with a
whisper of oak, fine-boned tannins and effortless balance. 2016-21
2013 Salentein Numina Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Only the third vintage of Numina Malbec, this still seems a little young at the moment. It’s
a remarkably floral, scented red, with thyme and lavender aromas, but the oak and fruit
tannins haven’t quite soaked into the wine as yet. One to cellar for a year or two, given its
backbone and acidity. 2017-24
2014 Salentein Single Vineyard La Pampa Plot No. 21 Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Broader and plumper than the Paraje Altamira Single Vineyard Malbec, as you’d expect, this
is just a little too ripe for my taste, but it’s still a stylish, firm, plummy red showing firmish
tannins and full-bodied flavours complemented by acidity. 2016-21
2010 Tempus Alba 50 Años Malbec
Anchoris 14%
This cuvée used ten of the 16 Malbec clones that Aldo Biondillo has isolated and propagated.
This is ripe, but at lower alcohol levels than some Malbecs, with refreshing natural acidity.
Still perky at six years old, showing savoury blackberry and red berry fruit and lovely focus.
2016-18
2014 Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.4%
Blending fruit from Las Compuertas, close to the Mendoza River, and Altamira in the Uco
Valley, this is a step up on the 2013 bottling showing ginger spice, ripe, figgy fruit, firmish
tannins and a sheen of stylish oak. 2016-21
2012 Terrazas de los Andes Single Vineyard Los Aromos
Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel 13.9%
There’s no doubting the seriousness or ambition of this wine, grown at a low (for Mendoza)
900 metres in Perdriel. It’s showing quite a bit of new oak at the moment, but there’s plenty
of fruit and tannin to soak it up. Fresh mint, dried herbs and sturdy blackcurrant fruit
combine well on the palate. 2016-22
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2014 Tintonegro Limestone Block Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
As its name indicates, this is all about limestone, sourced from a parcel in Chacayes. It’s a
focused, taut, densely constructed wine with quite a bit of oak balanced by dark berry fruit,
grippy tannins and focused, palate-cleansing minerality. Great value from a winery that
belongs among Argentina’s elite. 2017-23
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2010 Vallisto Felix
Salta 14.5%
An impressive joint venture between Pancho Lavaque, Marcello Pelleriti and Englishman,
Hugh Ryman, this is a blend of Tannat with 20% Malbec from a 100-year-old vineyard.
Ripe and oaky, but with fine tannins, lovely freshness and balance and a savoury, refreshing
undertone. 2016-20
2014 Ver Sacrum Monastrell
Vista Flores 13.5%
A pale, subtle, concrete egg-fermented Monastrell from eastern Mendoza, this is fresh and
deceptively easy to drink. The tannins are fine and comparatively delicate, the fruit sweet,
savoury and raspberry and strawberry sweet, supported by acidity and whole bunch spice.
2016-19
2013 Viña Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon
Paul Hobbs has a sure touch with Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing its fruit to express itself
while retaining its tannic backbone. This is a ripe, serious, fruit packed style with notes of
mint, dried herbs and vanilla and plenty of cassis and damson fruit sweetness. 2016-21
2012 Viña Cobos Bramare Malbec
The Luján de Cuyo Malbec bottling is, curiously, lower in alcohol than the Uco one, but is
similarly bold, ripe and rich with lovely floral aromas, textured tannins, expertly judged
oak and a core of sweet, blackberry and blueberry fruit. As ever with Paul Hobbs, this is a
supremely drinkable wine. 2016-20
2013 Viña Cobos Bramare Touza Vineyard Malbec
Las Compuertas 14%
The Touza Vineyard is in Las Compuertas, just north of the Mendoza River. It’s a cooler site
that produces wines with what Andrea Marchiori calls “a lot of force”. This has attractive
pepper spice, some violets, plenty of sweet oak and the textured tannins that are a feature of
the Cobos style. The ripe black fruits are underpinned by chalky acidity. 2016-22
2012 Viña Las Perdices Ala Colorada Cabernet Franc
This is ripe by the standards of some Mendoza Cabernet Francs, but none the worse for that.
Smooth and spicy, with green pepper and lead pencil undertones, textured, fine-grained
tannins and scented vanilla oak. 2016-20
2014 Viñalba 50/50 Reserva
Uco Valley 14.5%
As its label suggests, this is an equal blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, all of it
from Gualtallary and fermented in a combination of stainless steel and concrete, with 60%
oak ageing. Fine tannins, bright acidity and flavours of bramble, plum and green herbs are
stylishly intertwined here. 2016-21
2014 Viñalba 80/20 Reserva
Mendoza 14.5%
The blend this time is Malbec with 20% Cabernet Franc, again sourced from the JoyauxFabre’s own vineyards in the upper Uco Valley. Pepper spice, aromatic oak, fine-boned
tannins and grassy, plum and blackberry fruit are stylishly judged here, offering excellent
value for money. 2016-21
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2010 Weinert Carrascal Tinto
This blend of Malbec with 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot spends over two years
in large wooden casks and it’s another remarkable wine from André Weinert and Hubert
Weber. Incense and old books are evoked on the nose, while the palate is sweet, detailed and
complex, with very fine tannins and a feral undertone. Great value again. 2016-20
2006 Weinert Merlot
Luján de Cuyo 14%
It says something for a winery when its current Merlot vintage is 2006. This spends over two
years in large wooden barrels and is almost Italianate in style, like an old Brunello perhaps.
Firmish tannins, leafy tannins, sweet, gamey fruit, balancing acidity and a complex finish.
2016-19
2013 Yacochuya Malbec
Salta 15.5%
There was no Yacochuya in 2012, but this super concentrated, high alcohol Malbec
(supplemented with a little Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon) is back in 2013, made with
the help of Michel Rolland. Old vine concentration, ripe, figgy, fruit cake notes and soft,
succulent tannins make this an instantly recognisable Salta style. 2016-20
2013 Yacuil
Salta 15%
An intriguing 50/50 blend from Tacuil and Yacochuya, two of the best wineries in Salta
Province, this is a rich, unoaked Malbec made in a ripe, textured style with dense tannins,
masses of dark, figgy fruit and a firm, spicy finish. 2016-20
2015 Zorzal Eggo Bonaparte
Tupungato 13%
New to the Zorzal line-up, this is made entirely with Bonarda (though I’m not sure what
that has to do with Napoleon). Chalky and refreshing, with savoury black fruits and no oak
influence, it’s a typically sappy red from the Michelinis. 2016-20
2014 Zorzal Terroir Unico Malbec
Gualtallary 14%
Terroir Unico is made with a mixture of vineyards and different altitudes, picked over a
period of two months, but it’s all about purity, focus and limestone. Perfumed and elegant,
despite its 14% alcohol, this is typical of the refreshing Zorzal style from Juan-Pablo
Michelini. 2016-21
2014 Zuccardi Q Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
Delivering amazing value for money and a very pure expression of Uco Malbec, this blend of
Vista Flores and Paraje Altamira grapes is mostly fermented and aged in concrete. Deeply
coloured, intense and aromatic, it has a winning combination of structure, fruit weight and
freshness. 2016-21
2012 Abremundos Octava Alta
Mendoza 14.5%
We are on fashionable Uco Valley territory with this blend of Malbec and 20% Cabernet
Franc. Intense, aromatic and deeply coloured, this has attractive flavours of damson, plum,
graphite and liquorice, scented oak and serious tannins. 2017-21
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2014 Alma Austral Barrel Series Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 14%
My first encounter with this new winery, and a very positive one too. This is a delicate, floral,
rose petal-scented Pinot Noir that’s all about summer pudding fruit sweetness rather than
oak with zesty acidity from these high altitude San Pablo plantings. A bodega to keep an eye
on. 2016-19
2014 Altos La Hormigas Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda
Medrano 13.7%
Made from grapes grown around the winery in the wilds of Medrano, this is a Bonarda that’s
treated like a Pinot Noir, with very gentle extraction and no oak. Red cherry, raspberry and
pomegranate fruit flavours are complemented by gentle tannins, some pepper spice and
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec
Mendoza 13%
The “classic” Malbec, as it’s known at Altos, is a 60,000 case blend, all of it from Medrano in
eastern Mendoza. Picked early to preserve acidity, it includes some whole bunches, but very
little oak influence, resulting in a red that is spicy, juicy, refreshing and very drinkable.
2016-19
2014 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Gualtallary Arena
Gualtallary 13.8%
This is a new wine at the bodega, sourced from sandier soils in Gualtallary and showing
much more oak than the “Piedras” bottling. It’s still a good wine, with notes of liquorice and
Asian spices, bags of colour and a sheen of toasty oak, but the barrels need time to integrate.
2017-23
2013 Altupalka Malbec + Malbec
Salta 15.5%
Made with grapes from Molinos and Cafayate, grown at altitudes of 2,590 and 1,750 metres
respectively, this is a very subtly oaked cuvée. Chalky freshness, sappy tannins and bright
acidity complement the rich, full-bodied bramble and blueberry fruit flavours. 2016-19
2013 Altupalka Malbec Extremo
Salta 16.5%
This exciting new project, sourcing grapes from vineyards at 2,590 metres in Molinos, uses
Roberto de la Mota as its consultant. It’s a super rich, super charged style that’s certainly not
short of alcohol, but it has lovely wild herb aromas and plush, textured, fig and blackberry
fruit. 2016-21
2014 Amalaya Gran Corte Barrel Selection
Cafayate 14.3%
Picked 20 days later than the Tinto de Corte, but made with the same blend of grapes, this
sees more oak and often includes some declassified lots from Colomé. The American barrels
are a little marked for me, but this has appealing plum and black cherry flavours and tangy
acidity. 2017-21
2015 Amalaya Tinto de Corte
Cafayate 14%
Amalaya’s blended red used to include some Syrah, but is now a cuvée of 85% Malbec with
15% of Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a spicy, easy drinking style with a touch of oak
and lots of juicy, supple, liquorice and fennel-scented fruit. 2016-19
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2014 Andeluna Altitud Cabernet Sauvignon
Tupungato 14.5%
Another Andeluna wine that has improved dramatically, the new release of the Cabernet is
the best yet. Leafy and refreshing, with scented, well integrated oak, some dried herbs and a
core of mint and cassis. Very drinkable. 2016-20
2014 Andeluna Altitud Malbec
Tupungato 14.2%
Showing less oak, extraction and alcohol than in the recent past, this mid-level Malbec is
aromatic, fresh and subtly oaked, with plenty of colour, aromas of violets and rose petal,
sweet blueberry fruit and a chalky, minerally undertone. 2016-20
2013 Anko Flor de Cardón Malbec
Salta 13.9%
Picked considerably earlier than most of the Malbec in Salta, this varietal red is focused and
grippy with spice, red fruits and understated oak, complemented by acidity and a stony bite.
Alejandro Sejanovich delivers quality wherever he goes. 2016-19
2014 Antucura Cabernet Franc
Vista Flores 15%
At the oakier end of the Cabernet Franc spectrum, but this has excellent varietal expression
too. Green pepper, cut grass and herbal, blackcurrant fruit flavours are built on a foundation
of acidity and leafy, fine-grained tannins. Ripe but balanced. 2016-20
2014 Argento Cabernet Franc Reserva
Mendoza 14%
Even better than the Reserva Malbec, this is another noteworthy wine from the Argento
stable. Grassy, smooth and aromatic, it combines fresh acidity with subtle oak, fine tannins
with blueberry and plum fruit concentration. 2016-20
2014 Argento Single Vineyard Malbec
La Consulta 14%
The Argento range has improved since it was sold by the Catena Group, developing a more
ambitious top end. This is certainly a ripe style from winemaker Silvia Corti, but it’s complex,
too, showing spicy, peppery intensity, violet perfume and nicely textured tannins. 2016-20
2015 Atamisque Serbal Assemblage
Tupungato 14%
The Serbal range from Atamisque offers some of the best value drinking in Argentina. This
classy, four-way blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec shows
sensitive oak integration and a nuanced approach to winemaking, with spice, fine tannins
and savoury fruit. 2017-20
2015 Atamisque Serbal Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 14%
Aimed at the Pinot Noir drinker who doesn’t want to pay Grand Cru (or even village level)
prices, this juicy, charming, unoaked red is sweet, supple and very attractive, with refreshing
acidity and raspberry and wild strawberry fruit. 2016-19
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2012 Bodega del Desierto Pampa Blend
La Pampa 14.4%
Bodega del Desierto’s Bordeaux blend is a cuvée of equal parts Malbec and Cabernet Franc
with 20% Merlot. The oak is appealingly understated, allowing the fresh, balanced, mineraledged fruit to express itself. The tannins are quite firm, but should integrate over the next
year or so. 2016-21
2013 Bodega del Desierto Pampa Cabernet Franc
La Pampa 14.8%
Located in La Pampa province, close to the city of 25 Mayo, this family-owned winery
is making increasingly impressive wines. This is quite an oaky wine, but has the tannin
structure and fruit weight to cope, showing aromatic flavours of damson and mulberry and
balancing acidity. 2016-20
2015 Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Malbec
Río Negro 14%
The Verum Malbec is blended with 8% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc for added perfume.
This is oakier than some of Agustín Lombroni’s wines, but has the same poise and elegance.
Smooth tannins, bright acidity and a hint of minerality lend definition to the sappy
2012 Bodega Elvira Calle Ca’ de Calle
Mendoza 14.5%
The Ca’ de Calle blend includes a little Bonarda, adding a savoury note to the dominant
Malbec. This is another polished wine from this Luján-based winery showing plum and
raspberry flavours, bright acidity and understated oak. 2016-19
2014 Bodega Vistalba Corte C
Vistalba 14.5%
Corte C is a cuvée of Malbec with 31% Cabernet Sauvignon, most of it fermented and aged
in tank and cement, but 20% seeing some oak. Floral, ripe and smooth, it’s a very attractive
red with fine tannins and plush liquorice and blueberry notes. The perfume is particularly
appealing here. 2016-19
2013 Bressia Pinot Noir Piel Negra
Uco Valley 13%
Showing the lighter touch of which the Bressias are more than capable, this Uco Valley Pinot
is fresh and attractive, with notes of redcurrant and strawberry, well-integrated oak, bright
acidity and a nip of tannin. One of the better Uco Pinots. 2016-19
2013 Buscado Vivo o Muerte El Manzano
Chacayes 14%
From higher altitude Chacayes, this is a blend of Malbec with 10% Cabernet Franc and Petit
Verdot. It’s showing more oak and fruit sweetness than the other Buscado wines and is more
approachable as a result. Plush and ripe, but with good underlying freshness and focus.
2016-21
2013 Cadus Wines Single Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
The Cadus wines are slowly moving towards greater elegance under winemaker Santi
Mayorga, but this is still a pretty oaky style of Malbec. It’s impressive and bold, with
saturated colour, ripe, textured tannins and vibrant black fruits. I just wish they’d save their
money with fewer new barrels. 2017-22
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2015 Chakana Nuna Malbec
Agrelo 14%
This organic Malbec sees no oak at all and marks a continuing evolution in style under
winemaker Gabriel Bloise towards greater freshness and precision. Red and black fruits, a
hint of liquorice and a minerally undertone make this a delight to drink. It’s great value, too.
2016-19
2015 Chakana Nuna Syrah
Mendoza 14.5%
There’s a little bit of oak on the Nuna Syrah, unlike the Malbec in the same range, soaked
up by the structure and concentration of the wine. Smoky black fruits, a twist of the pepper
grinder and impressive concentration complemented by mineral freshness. 2016-20
2014 Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
Like most of the Cuvelier reds, this sits at the riper end of the spectrum, but the alcohol
is balanced by fruit weight. Fine tannins, focused acidity and complex vanilla, plum and
Mediterranean herbs combine appealingly here. 2016-20
2010 Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Vin
Uco Valley 15.5%
A ripe, figgy, full-bodied blend of predominantly Malbec with 19% Cabernet Sauvignon and
lesser amounts of Petit Verdot, Merlot and Syrah, this is a big, oaky wine. There’s a lot of fruit
power here, complemented by a backbone of tannin, but a little more freshness would make
it an even better wine. 2016-19
2012 Deumayen Trez Malbec Reserva
Vista Flores 14.3%
This is an ambitious wine with one eye on the cellar. It’s showing quite a bit of oak at the
moment, but this deeply coloured, intense wine has a supporting cast of ripe, textured
tannins, savoury, spicy fruit and fresh acidity. 2017-21
2014 DiamAndes de Uco Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 14.5%
You’d expect a winery with a Bordeaux connection (the same family owns Château MalarticLagravière) to be good at Cabernet Sauvignon, and you’d be right. This is a serious, focused
example of the grape, which is aged in 50% new oak and has grassy, cassis-scented notes and
plenty of texture. 2017-22
2014 Domaine Bousquet Gaia
Tupungato 14.5%
Gaia, a name that has special significance for the organic movement, is a blend of Malbec
with 45% Syrah and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s a seamless cuvée, showing dark, yet
refreshing bramble and blackberry fruit, fine tannnins and an overlay of oak that needs more
time to integrate. 2017-21
2012 Dominio del Plata Nosotros Malbec
Vista Flores 14.5%
Made before the arrival of Edy del Popolo, this is an expression of the old style Dominio del
Plata, with lots of smoky oak, firmer tannins and a little less freshness than more recent
releases. It’s still an impressive wine, but it’s a little less enjoyable to drink. 2016-20
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2013 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Brioso
Mendoza 14.5%
There’s certainly no lack of concentration on this blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25%
Malbec, 25% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, but it’s a more old-fashioned style from
the winery, with firm tannins and a little too much oak. The wine may integrate with another
year or two in bottle. 2017-22
2013 Doña Paula Estate Black Edition Malbec
The Black Edition release also contains 37% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot, all of it
from Ugarteche. It’s a focused, refreshing style, showing some calcium carbonate minerality,
understated oak, vibrant black fruits and a twist of the pepper grinder. Also tasted last year.
2016-20
2013 El Esteco Cabernet Sauvignon
Made with a combination of fruit from high and lower-trellised vineyards, this Cabernet
Sauvignon also sees 15% whole bunches. Lavender, mint, rosemary and ripe red fruits are
supported by a backbone of fine-grained tannins. 2016-21
2013 El Esteco Ciclos Icono
El Esteco’s icon wine is an equal blend of Malbec and Merlot, made in a bold, richly oaked
style with bags of dark berry fruit concentration, chocolatey, barrel-derived flavours and
impressive underlying concentration. 2017-21
2012 El Esteco Fincas Notables Cabernet Sauvignon
Cafayate 14.5%
The Finca in question here is Finca La Urquiza, a parral vineyard that was planted in the
1960s. Aged in larger oak barrels and fermented with 15% whole bunches, this is a serious,
focused Cabernet with plenty of grip and concentration. Needs time in bottle. 2017-22
2013 El Esteco Fincas Notables Malbec
Cafayate 14.5%
There’s quite a bit of French oak on this barrel-fermented Malbec, but it’s supported by
plenty of rich, savoury, plummy fruit and underlying minerality. It’s quite a worked style, yet
the overall balance points to a wine that will age well. 2017-21
2013 El Esteco Fincas Notables Tannat
Cafayate 14.5%
El Esteco are pioneers of Tannat in Cafayate, having sold their first varietal expression of the
grape in 1999. This is a super rich style with plenty of oak and tannins supported by firm,
dense, concentrated black fruits and refreshing acidity. 2017-21
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Absoluto Tannat
Cafayate 14.5%
Further proof that Tannat has an exciting future in Cafayate, even when it’s making entry
point wines such as this unoaked example, El Porvenir’s red is savoury, ripe and stylish, with
just the right amount of tannic backbone. Impressive winemaking from Mariano Quiroga.
2016-19
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2014 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cafayate 14.5%
Like the Single Vineyard Malbec, this comes from the Finca Río Seco, but isn’t quite as good.
The oak is slightly more marked and there’s a volatile lift, complemented by sweet brambly
fruit and medium weight tannins. 2016-19
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2012 Familia Cassone Obra Prima Malbec Reserva
Luján de Cuyo 14%
This Luján-based winery makes bold, textured, oaky wines, although that may change under
oenologist Estela Perinetti. This dark, dense, tapenade, fig and blackberry fruity wine is
powerful stuff, but has good underlying balance. 2016-20
2011 Familia Schroeder Blend
Patagonia 14.5%
Schroeder’s Bordeaux blend is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based cuvée with 25% Malbec, 20%
Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc that sees 18 months in French oak. Smooth, chocolatey and
stylishly oaked it’s a ripe, polished red that’s very harmonious on the palate. 2017-21
2015 Familia Schroeder Pinot Noir Clon R4
Patagonia 14.1%
A clonal selection from a single block (31A, in case you want to know), this is still a
comparatively young vineyard, but it’s making some impressive wines. Juicy, brambly and
sweet, with some whole bunch spice and deftly handled French oak. Young and appealing,
yet likely to age further. 2016-19
2014 Familia Schroeder Saurus Barrel Fermented Malbec
Patagonia 14.5%
Barrel fermentation in 100% new French and American oak doesn’t sound like my kind
of wine, but this deeply coloured Malbec, which is taken off its skins comparatively early
is plush and aromatic, unfurling sweet violet and blueberry flavours and smooth, refined
tannins. 2016-20
2014 Filus Bodega y Viñedos Filus Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Filus’ oenologist, Mario Malatto, used to work for Altos Las Hormigas and favours elegance
over extraction. This is low on oak and high on perfumed liquorice and blackberry flavours,
with refreshing Uco Valley acidity and fine-grained texture. 2016-21
2012 Fin del Mundo FIN Cabernet Franc
Neuquén 14.5%
Stylishly packaged and equally impressive on the palate, this is less oaky and better balanced
than some previous releases. Leafy, grassy and subtle, with velvety tannins and attractive
toast and vanilla undertones supported by acidity. 2016-21
2013 Fin del Mundo Gran Reserva
Neuquén 14.5%
Made in an appealingly commercial style with lots of sweet vanilla oak and smooth tannins,
this attractive cuvée of Malbec with 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot and 17% Cabernet
Franc has plenty of ripe black fruits, some liquorice and a refreshing finish. 2016-20
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2013 Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo 14.3%
The tannins are a little firm here (it is a pure Cabernet after all), but the wine shows
good balance between scented oak, green pepper and pyrazine notes, firm structure and
refreshing acidity. An impressive varietal. 2017-21
2011 Finca El Origen Phi Single Vineyard
Vista Flores 14.9%
If you’re looking for a wine from the Finca El Origen range to tuck away for a year or more,
this should be it. It’s a huge red, with lashings of oak, tannin and alcohol underpinned by
layers of plush black fruit intensity. Not particularly subtle, but very impressive. 2017-23
2013 Finca La Celia Elite Malbec
Uco Valley 14.7%
This Santa Carolina-owned winery’s top blend is a cuvée of Malbec with 4% Syrah and 3%
Petit Verdot. Floral, ripe and attractive, it’s an example of the Uco Valley at its perfumed best,
showing subtle red fruits, fresh acidity and understated French oak spice. 2016-21
2013 Finca La Chamiza Martín Alsina Malbec
Definitely a wine that’s made to age, this is ambitiously oaked and well structured. Compact,
rich and youthful, it’s a tannic, dense, but abundantly fruity style, unfurling flavours of
blackberry, liquorice and plum in the glass. 2017-22
2014 Finca Las Moras Paz Malbec
Pedernal 14.4%
One of a number of noteworthy wines I’ve had from San Juan’s Pedernal Valley this
year, this is grown at 1,400 metres on stony, limestone soils. It has the grip as well as the
Mediterranean spices that are typical of reds from here, with freshnes and dark berry fruits
on the palate. 2016-20
2014 Finca Quara Special Selection Malbec
Cafayate 14%
Restrained in terms of alcohol, at least for a Cafayate red, this is a modern style Malbec
showing aromatic Mediterranean herbs on the nose, a hint of good reduction, attractive
French and American oak and refreshing acidity. Polished winemaking from Pancho
Lavaque. 2016-20
2013 Finca Suarez Gran Malbec
Reflecting the quality of the grapes in these old Paraje Altamira plantings, this is a Malbec
that doesn’t appear to be trying too hard. Fresh and perfumed, it displays aromas of
blackberry and orange zest and flavours of subtle cinnamon spice and minerally acidity.
2016-21
2013 Fincas Don Martino Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.5%
Hugo Martino and Jorge Cradozo’s winery in Drummond is a comparatively recent creation
that deserves to be better known. This is a stylish, easy drinking Malbec showing a hint of
good reduction in bottle, violet and bramble aromas, subtle oak and a fine, tapering finish.
2016-19
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2015 Gen de Alma Ji Ji Ji Malbec C02 Pinot Noir
Gualtallary 12.1%
Argentina’s answer to a good Beaujolais, made with 100% whole bunches from Pinot Noir,
rather than Gamay, this is fresh, juicy and unoaked with bright acidity, redcurrant and
pomegranate fruit and a chalky bite. 2016-18
2013 Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon
You’d expect a winery owned by the Montes family from Chile to be good at making Cabernet
in Argentina and you’d be correct. This is a classic cassis, dried herbs and cigar box style,
with a firm backbone of tannin and well-integrated, toasty oak. There’s 5% Malbec in this
too. 2017-21
2013 Kaiken Ultra Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Aurelio Montes Junior is taking this Chilean-owned winery to new heights, working
alongside oenologist, Rogelio Rabino. This is a very poised Uco Valley Malbec, combining
perfumed, subtly oaked fruit from Vista Flores, Paraje Altamira and Gaultallary. It has the
structure to age, too. 2016-21
2014 La Mascota Malbec
Cruz de Piedra 14%
From stony, riverbed soils in Cruz de Piedra, this is typical of winemaker Opi Sadler’s style,
favouring fruit over oak intrusion. Spice, minerality and bags of perfume define this wine, as
does its abundant blackberry and blueberry fruit. Essence of modern style Mendoza Malbec.
2016-20
2013 Lagarde Guarda Cabernet Franc
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Everything you expect a Luján Cabernet Franc to be, combining ripe, textured fruit with
floral, grassy aromas and very subtle oak. The tannins are particularly well done here, folded
into the wine and adding some backbone. 2016-19
2011 Lagarde Henry Gran Guarda
Malbec-based with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon for company, this is a nicely mature Luján
blend that’s still got some ageing potential, as its label suggests. Attractive oak, fine-grained
tannins, leafy, sweetly textured fruit and well judged balancing acidity. 2016-20
2013 Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Malbec
Luján de Cuyo 14%
This Cuban-owned winery in Luján was an exciting discovery for me this year. This deeply
coloured, aromatic, well balanced Malbec is the pick of the current range, with sweet
blackberry and black cherry fruit complemented by fresh acidity and subtle French oak.
2016-22
2014 Luca Syrah Laborde Double Select
La Consulta 14%
A venerable parral vineyard provides half of the fruit for this old vine Syrah from La
Consulta. It’s oakier than some of the Luca wines, with bramble fruit sweetness, good
texture, fine tannins and an undertone of clove and nutmeg. Well made if not massively
varietal in style. 2017-21
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2013 Luigi Bosca Gala 1
Mendoza 14.5%
A Malbec-based blend with 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Tannat, this is another comparatively
ripe, forward style from Luigi Bosca, made for immediate pleasure rather than the cellar.
Supple, floral and fruity, this has an appealing combination of red fruits, acidity and a tannic
core from the Petit Verdot. 2016-19
Mendoza 14%
First made in 2008, this is blend of Cabernet Franc from Maipú and Las Compuertas
with 5% Malbec. Confirming the promise of Cabernet Franc in Mendoza, it’s grassy and
refreshing, with bright acidity, floral, spicy fruit and good density and focus. The wine has
more tannin than you think at first. 2016-21
2014 Manos Negras Atrevida Blend
There’s just a splash of Cabernet Franc in this Malbec-dominated blend from the southern
Uco Valley. It’s another impressive performance from this young winery, showing the focus
and grip that define Alejandro Sejanovich’s style. Spice, granular tannin, some chalky
minerality and lovely freshness. 2017-22
2015 Marcelo Miras Pinot Noir
Made from young vines in Río Negro, this is an easy-drinking style that’s bottled with a little
carbon dioxide. Floral and light, with cherry stone and redcurrant brightness, a hint of clove
spice and refreshing, palate-cleansing acidity. 2016-19
2015 Mariano di Paola Mapema Malbec
Tupungato 14%
Sourced from Tupungato, close to the Rutini winery where Mariano di Paolo is the chief
oenologist, this is sold under his impressive own label. Plum, black fig, blackberry and spicy
oak flavours are enhanced by the freshness and acidity of the high Uco Valley and ripe,
textured tannins. 2017-22
2014 Mendel Lunta Malbec
Made to be approachable early (at least by Mendel’s age-worthy standards), Lunta is full of
plush, vibrant fruit expression, with subtle oak and less extraction than the rest of the range.
Balanced, supple and easy to drink. 2016-19
2012 Montechez Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.1%
Tasted last year, but included in this report because it is still showing well, this has
integrated its oak over the last 12 months. Refined, well balanced and aromatic, showing
raspberry and black plum notes, intense perfume and the silky tannins you expect from
consultant Roberto de la Mota. 2016-21
2012 Monteviejo Lindaflor Blend
Uco Valley 14.5%
Combining Malbec with Syrah, this is another Monteviejo wine that’s inching towards a
fresher, more aromatic incarnation, even in a warm vintage like 2012. Raspberry, blueberry
and fruit cake notes are balanced by a backdrop of tannin and acidity, suggesting that this
will age well in bottle. 2017-22
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2014 Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Malbec
Uco Valley 13.8%
Cristián Morelli’s Uco Valley operation is one to watch, producing a string of impressive
wines. This old oak aged Malbec is fresh, balanced and restrained, with crunchy damson and
blueberry fruit and a complex, stony finish. 2016-20
2014 Mundo Revès Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
A joint venture between Quentin Pommier and Thibault Lepoutre, two young oenologists,
this is a pan-Uco Valley blend from Chacayes, La Consulta and El Cepillo. It’s a floral, spicy,
refreshing style with the focus on red fruits, bright acidity and understated oak. 2016-21
2014 Navarro Correas Colección Privada Malbec
Mendoza 13.5%
A classic Mendoza blend of 60% Uco Valley and 40% Luján fruit, this combines plushness
and fruit weight with acidity, perfume and focus. The oak is very understated here, adding a
sheen to the plum and blueberry fruit. 2016-20
2014 Noemía A Lisa Malbec
Río Negro 14%
Hans Vinding-Diers’ “entry point” red is a blend of Malbec with 10% Merlot, aged in older
oak to allow the fruit to express itself. Dense and darkly coloured, it’s a wine with firm,
almost Italianate tannins complemented by flavours of plum and damson and a hint of clove
spice. 2016-20
2012 Norton Perdriel Coleccíon Malbec
I tasted this a year ago, but it seems to have improved in the bottle, so here it is again. Bright
and attractive, with well-integrated oak, violet and bramble aromas and a spicy, peppery
finish. Great value, as ever, from Norton. 2016-20
2009 O Fournier A Crux Blend
Uco Valley 15.5%
Reviewed last year, but this is still the current release of this blend of Tempranillo with 40%
Malbec and 10% Syrah. It’s a rich, dense, oaky wine showing marked alcohol, firmish tannins
and rich, cakey, concentrated fruit flavours. Well made, but this would age better if it were
fresher. 2016-18
2012 O Fournier A Crux Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
Made in an excellent vintage, this is a step up on the 2009 that I reviewed last year. It’s a
typically dense, ripe, late picked style with firmish tannins, sweet, fig and bramble fruit and
an overlay of French and American oak. 2016-21
2012 O Fournier B Crux Blend
Uco Valley 15%
The percentage of Tempranillo has been reduced a little, allowing Malbec to dominate
this four-way blend with Merlot and Syrah. It’s a rich, slightly over-ripe style with notes
of fig, bramble and tobacco, firmish tannins and an overlay of oak. Well made, if a tad old
fashioned. 2016-20
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2014 Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Puro Corte d’Oro
Mendoza 14.5%
The “golden blend” is a combination of more or less equal amounts of Malbec, Cabernet
Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Syrah, some of which are co-fermented. Soft, broad and easy to
drink, this shows almost no oak, allowing its sweet red fruits, tobacco and ginger spice notes
to express themselves. 2016-19
2014 Paimán Keo Tannat Roble
Chañarmuyo Valley 14.5%
It’s good to see that Tannat does well in Chañarmuyo as well as Salta. This old-oak aged red
is all about grip and natural acidity, with focused tannins, a hint of meaty reduction, great
length and flavours of tobacco and dried herbs. 2016--20
2013 Pascual Toso Finca Pedregal Single Vineyard
Mendoza 14.5%
Big, bold and richly oaked, this blend of Malbec with 28% Cabernet Sauvignon is typical of
the Pascual Toso style, showing plenty of texture and tannin, supported by plum, damson
and blackcurrant fruit and decent acidity. Needs a little time to digest the barrels. 2017-21
2015 Plop! Tinto de Malbec y Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 10.5%
The 20-year-old Manuel Michelini has a promising future, judging by the quality of this
refreshing, low alcohol blend, co-fermented and aged in old oak. Light, grassy and refreshing
with a chalky bite and crunchy acidity. 2016-19
2014 Puerto Ancona Tikal Natural
Vista Flores 13.5%
Ernesto Catena’s blend of Malbec with 40% Syrah is one of the few biodynamically certified
reds in Argentina. It’s quite an oaky style, with firmish tannins providing structure, lots
of savoury spice, bramble and raspberry fruit and tangy, refreshing acidity. A boundarypushing wine. 2016-20
2010 Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Red Blend
Mendoza 14.5%
Only the second release of this Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend, aged in (for
me, a little excessive) 200% new oak. It’s something of a US market-focused style, with plenty
of fruit depth but an awful lot of toasty, chocolatey oak. Well made, but not a typical Pulenta
red. 2017-24
2014 Revancha Malbec
Mendoza 14.6%
The cooler vintage seems to have benefited the Revancha style, which combines Malbec with
5% Cabernet Franc. This is a dense, serious red that’s made to age, showing notes of dried
herbs, firmish tannins, sweet black fruits and an overlay of oak. 2017-21
2014 Riglos Quinto Malbec
Gualtallary 14.7%
Picked late by the standards of Quinto in this cool vintage, this is a good introduction to the
Riglos range. It’s a serious, black fruited number with good focus, understated second use
oak and a compact, structured finish that will repay patience. 2017-22
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2012 San Huberto Nina Blend
Argentina 14%
Located in the Valle de Aminga at 1,450 metres, this is one of the most exciting names in La
Rioja. This is the winery’s best red, a blend of Petit Verdot with 30% Cabernet Sauvignon and
20% Malbec (this from Mendoza). Liquorice, red berry and violet flavours are underpinned
by fine tannins and a refreshing starburst of acidity. 2016-19
2013 San Pedro de Yacochuya
Cafayate 15.5%
Late picked, as tends to be the case with the Yacochuya grapes, this is a blend of Malbec and
Cabernet Sauvignon with super sweet, soft, full-bodied flavours of fig and bramble subtle oak
and textured, supple tannins. 2016-18
2014 Sierra Lima Alpha Malbec
Molinos 15%
Made with purchased grapes from Molinos, this is the personal project of Raul Dávalos
Junior and his cousin, Pancho Morelli. The vines are still young, but this is an exciting
label made without oak and showing rich, succulent, spicy fruit with firmish tannins and
persistent, minerally acidity. 2016-20
2013 Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Arena Malbec
Paraje Altamira 14%
Made with grapes from shallower, sandier soils, this is generally picked early as it has a
tendency to get over-ripe. It’s a floral, charming, comparatively forward style showing silky
tannins and a nice combination of plum and red berry fruit supported by acidity. 2016-21
2015 Trapiche Costa & Pampa Pinot Noir
Chapadmalal 12.8%
One of those wines that I’m longing to put into a blind tasting, this comes from Argentina’s
Atlantic seaboard. Aged in old oak and fermented with 20% whole bunches, it’s a savoury,
elegant Pinot with attractive fruit sweetness, tangy acidity and impressive balance. 2016-20
2013 Trapiche Medalla Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Deeply coloured, as Uco Malbecs often are, but not extracted in the least, this is a smoky,
plummy, perfumed red with hints of fennel and liquorice, bright acidity and the subtle oak
handling that’s the hallmark of Daniel Pi’s winemaking. 2016-21
2012 Trivento Eolo Malbec
Uco Valley 15%
Eolo comes from vines that were planted in 1912, so the concentration and density of the
resulting wine comes as no surprise. It’s a serious, compact, richly textured wine with dark
blackberry, liquorice and blueberry fruit and the power and backbone to age further in bottle.
2016-21
2014 Vaglio Chacra Malbec
Agrelo 13.9%
Agrelo Malbecs tend to be broader and fleshier than those from the Uco Valley, and that’s the
case here. Plush, oaky and rich, it’s a wine with lots of dark bramble and blackberry fruit,
savoury tannins and a spicy, concentrated finish. Like all of José Lavaglio Balbo’s wines, this
is made to age. 2017-23
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2014 Ver Sacrum Garnacha
Vista Flores 13.5%
Formerly sold under the Team Grenachista label, this is one of very few varietal Garnachas in
Argentina. On this evidence, there should be more of them, because it’s a pale, elegant, spicy
delight, with 100% whole bunches, no oak and a nip of tannin to add rigour to the raspberry
fruit sweetness. 2016-19
2012 Vicentin Colosso Malbec
Mendoza 15.5%
Carola Tizio’s full-bodied, well-upholstered Malbec comes from Vista Flores, Las
Compuertas and La Consulta. It’s a ripe, slightly jammy style with notes of fruitcake and
vanilla spice supported by fine tannins and just enough acidity. 2016-20
2012 Viña Alicia Malbec
Ripe, aromatic and refreshing (despite its comparatively high alcohol), this unfurls notes of
oregano and thyme in the glass, complemented by spicy red fruits, bright acidity, subtle oak
and fine-grained tannins. 2016-20
2011 Viña Alicia Morena
This cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon with 12% Cabernet Franc won’t make old bones, but it’s
very attractive to drink right now, demonstrating attractive bottle development, stylish oak,
firm tannins and textured, sweet fig and tobacco notes. 2016-18
2011 Viña Alicia Nebbiolo
One of only a handful of impressive Nebbiolos made outside Piedmont, this is firm and
aromatic, with classic rose petal, tar and red berry notes as well as the chewy, savoury
undertone that’s a feature of the variety. 2016-19
2013 Viña Cobos Bramare Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
One of two Bramare Malbecs, this is sourced entirely from the Uco Valley. It’s suitably
aromatic and full of violet and blackberry fruit, complemented by lashings of oak, supple
tannins and a core of sweetness. Another plush style that’s very appealing to drink. 2016-19
2011 Viña Las Perdices Tinamú
Luján de Cuyo 15%
There’s no denying that this is a firm and appropriately tannic blend of Malbec with 7%
Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Tannat, but it’s got masses of inky concentration and dark,
succulent berry fruit to back it up. It just needs time to come together. 2017-22
2014 Viñalba Malbec Reserva
Uco Valley 14.5%
A commendably consistent 50,000-bottle production from Gualtallary in the upper Uco
Valley. It’s a textbook expression of the grape, with violet and lavender aromas, stylish oak,
masses of dark berry fruit and a structured finish. Outstanding value for money from the
Fabre Montamayou team. 2016-22
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2013 Weinert Carrascal Tempranillo
Made entirely from Tempranillo grow in Luján, which is rare, this is a wonderful bargain
from this stubbornly traditional winery. Leafy, gamey and lightly balsamic, with fine
tannins, lowish alcohol and considerable complexity. A total bargain. 2016-19
2012 Zorzal Piantao
Tupungato 14.5%
As if to prove that they know how to use oak barrels, the Michelinis age this for three years,
mostly in older wood. It’s a Cabernet Franc-dominated cuvée with some Malbec, Cabernet
Sauvignon and Syrah for company. Serious and quite firm, with higher alcohol than most
Zorzal wines. 2016-20
2012 Abremundos Octava Bassa Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
The oak is a little assertive for my liking on this Vista Flores Malbec, but there’s enough
underlying fruit to soak it up over the next year or two. Plum and blackberry sweetness are
complemented by fresh acidity, a hint of blood orange and ripe tannins. 2016-20
2014 Argento Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14%
The Argento Reserva range has really impressed me this year, demonstrating that big brands
don’t have to make one dimensional wines. Plush, ripe and densely coloured, this is smooth
and well balanced with just the right amount of oak. Essence of Argentinean Malbec, in
short. 2016-20
2013 Atamisque Malbec
La Consulta 14%
Typical of the refined, European-style reds from this Uco Valley-based winery, this is
comparatively high in alcohol, but has the acidity and fruit concentration to cope. The
tannins are more integrated at this stage than they were on the 2012. 2016-20
2014 Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Cabernet Franc Reserva
Río Negro 14%
Made in a warmer vintage than the 2013, tasted last year, this is a more tannic and ambitious
wine that still needs time in bottle. Showing cut grass and green herb notes, it’s refreshing
and well made with a core of dark berry fruit and subtle oak. 2017-21
2015 Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Pinot Noir
Río Negro 13.8%
Definitely among the best Pinot Noirs from Patagonia, this floral, spicy red is fermented
with 10% stems but has very little oak influence. It’s an elegant, refreshing style, exhibiting
flavours of redcurrant and wild strawberry, underpinned by cool climate acidity. 2016-19
2013 Bodega Elvira Calle Alberti 154 Malbec DOC
The DOC Malbec is the one to go for here, showing intense bramble and blackberry fruit,
notes of liquorice and lavender and appealingly understated oak underpinned by acidity.
Another exciting discovery for me in 2016. 2016-21
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2013 Bodega Iaccarini Cavas Don Nicasio Malbec
San Rafael 14.6%
A winery that’s known for its impressive Bonardas as well as this Malbec, sourced from
the bodega’s eight hectare plantings of the grape. Deeply coloured, smoothly oaked and
concentrated, this displays flavours of liquorice, vanilla and blueberry and finishes with
refreshing acidity. 2016-20
2013 Bodega Malma Malbec Reserva de Familia
Neuquén 14.4%
Formerly known as NQN, this bodega is much improved. Its Malbec is the pick of the range,
showing plum, bramble and violet flavours, smooth tannins and a sheen of oak. Forward,
approachable and very drinkable. 2016-19
2013 Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 15%
The alcohol is a little marked on this blend of grapes from Agrelo and the Uco Valley. The
tannins are suitably firm and structured, with some plum and cassis fruit, well handled oak
and acidity adding freshness on the finish. Ripe for a wine made in a cooler year.
2016-21
2013 Bressia Monteagrelo Syrah
Uco Valley 14.5%
After a break in 2012, when the wine was not made, this is a welcome return for the Bressia
Syrah. Showing a hint of reduction that’s typical of the grape, this is spicy and refreshing
with notes of tapenade and blueberry and deftly handled French and American oak. 2016-20
2014 Caro Aruma
Mendoza 14.5%
Vinified entirely in stainless steel, this is the entry point wine from this Lafite/Catena joint
venture, made entirely from Malbec grown in Agrelo and Altamira. It’s a suitably exuberant,
forward wine, but has some finesse, too, with notes of pepper spice and violet and juicy fruit
flavours. 2016-19
2014 Casarena Reservado Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14.5%
If you like your Cabernet Sauvignon ripe, dense and textured, you’ll love this release from
Casarena, sourced from an old, high trellised parral vineyard. Structured and concentrated,
with plush, almost figgy fruit and well integrated oak. 2016-21
2015 Casarena Winemaker’s Selection Malbec
Showing the perfume that seems to be a feature of Bernardo Bossi’s winemaking at Casarena,
this rose and violet-scented Malbec is ripe and supple, with a touch of oak, textured
strawberry and black cherry fruit, a touch of ginger spice and underlying freshness. 2016-20
2014 Clos de Chacras Blend
Mendoza 14.1%
Clos de Chacras’ Bordeaux blend is a stylish cuvée of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit
Verdot, with perfume and blackberry fruit to spare. It’s a lovely, scented wine where the oak,
acidity and tannin provide the foundations. 2017-22
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2015 Coquena Malbec
The grapes for Coquena come mostly from Tolombón and one picked earlier than those for
sister winery, Yacochuya. This is a juicy, floral, easy-drinking style with some rosemary
aromas, sweet bramble and blueberry fruit and a touch of oak. 2016-18
2014 Coquena Tannat
There’s something rather special about Tannat in Cafayate, a grape that retains acidity
and tannin in this hot desert climate. Rich and concentrated, but showing good grip and
freshness, this is brambly, sweet and very appealing to drink. 2016-18
2012 Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Merlot
Uco Valley 14%
There are only 6,000 bottles of this small lot Merlot to go round, but it’s a tasty expression of
the grape, with lower alcohol than some of the Cuvelier wines. Scented, smooth and sweetly
oaked, with savoury tannins, a hint of green herbs and lowish acidity. 2016-19
2012 Cuvelier Los Andes El Cuvelier de los Andes
Uco Valley 16.3%
The icon wine at Cuvelier is a cuvée of Malbec with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon and
Syrah, made in the ultra-ripe, late-picked style that defines the winery’s style. It’s an
impressive wine with fig, tobacco and damson notes and a core of sweet, if alcoholic, fruit.
2016-19
2012 Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Malbec
Uco Valley 16.5%
Made with the best Malbec blocks every year, this also sees 100% new oak. It’s a super
charged, super concentrated red that’s more alcoholic than some fortified wines. There’s
no doubting the quality of the tannins or the plush, fig and red berry flavours, but this is an
extreme style. 2016-18
2013 Dante Robino Gran Dante Bonarda
Santa Rosa 14.2%
Often regarded as a lesser grape in Argentina, Bonarda is finally enjoying the attention it
deserves from us wine writers. This is brambly and strawberry sweet, with subtle, first use
oak, good texture and notes of clove and cinnamon spice. 2016-18
2015 Dominio del Plata Crios Malbec
Mendoza 13.9%
If any wine reflects the changes that have taken place at this winery over the last three years,
it is this 35,000 case blend, which is now sourced mainly from the Uco Valley. Less oaky than
in the past, it’s a delightfully floral, appealing Malbec with notes of violet, red plums and a
twist of pepper. 2016-19
2012 Durigutti Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 15.1%
The Durigutti brothers’ Malbec combines grapes from Agrelo and the Uco Valley and is a
well judged combination of sweet, supple fruit with high altitude freshness and minerality.
Perfumed and refreshing, it’s less oaky than some of their wines, and all the better for that.
2016-20
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2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Absoluto Malbec
Cafayate 14.5%
This value-for-money Malbec sees no oak at all and comes from the Finca Rio Seco. Smooth,
soft and supple with gentle spice and lots of aromatic fruit, it’s made to be drunk young, and
so it should given how gluggable it is. 2016-19
2013 Entre Vero Green Moustache
Lunlunta 14%
Matías Prieto is a young winemaker who’s doing exciting things. This stylishly labelled blend
of Cabernet Sauvignon and 45% Malbec is a case in point. Plush, unoaked and supple, with
sweet raspberry and plum flavours and a refreshing, well balanced finish. 2016-18
2015 Escorihuela Gascón Candela High Altitude Malbec/Syrah
Mendoza 13.5%
A wine that lives up to its stylish label, this is one of a comparatively small number of
Malbec/Syrah blends in Argentina, but should inspire a few more. Soft, smooth and
aromatic, the cuvée has understated oak, some pepper spice and raspberry and bramble fruit
flavours. 2016-18
2013 Etchart Arnaldo B
Cafayate 14.5%
The top wine from this large, Pernod Ricard-owned bodega is an assemblage of Malbec
with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Tannat. It’s not short of oak, but the barrels are
complemented by dark plum and cassis fruit and fresh acidity. The Tannat adds a welcome
extra dimension here. 2017-21
2011 Familia Cassone Obra Prima Maximus
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Maximus is a Bordeaux-meets-the-Rhône-Valley blend of Malbec with 17% Cabernet Franc
and 17% Syrah that spends a year in new oak. Built for the long-term, it’s rich, smooth and
toasty, with ample plum, blackberry and spice and a firm, slightly drying finish. 2017-22
2014 Familia Schroeder Saurus Select Pinot Noir
Patagonia 14.5%
The Pinot Noirs from this ever-improving Neuquén bodega are getting better with every
vintage under winemaker Leonardo Puppato. This second tier example is scented and
comparatively forward, showing easy drinking red berry and pomegranate fruit and subtle
oak. 2016-19
2012 Filus Bodega y Viñedos MCC Filus
Mendoza 14.5%
Packaged in a heavy bottle, this Malbec-based blend is supplemented by 30% Cabernet
Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc. It’s slightly less exciting than the varietal Malbecs, but is
still a sweet, savoury, smoothly textured red with well integrated oak and a refreshing finish.
2017-21
2013 Finca Agostino Agostino Familia
Mendoza 14%
A pan-Mendoza blend that combines fruit from Maipú and the Uco Valley, this is an oaky
but well balanced cuvée of Malbec with 20% Petit Verdot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15%
Syrah. Minty, smooth and richly textured, with notes of dried herbs and tobacco and focused
acidity. 2016-20
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2013 Finca El Origen Gran Reserva Malbec
Uco Valley 14.6%
Like many other wines that are packaged in a heavy bottle, this deeply coloured Vista Flores
Malbec has a lot of oak and extraction, but has enough violet and lavender aromas and
intense bramble, dark plum and blackberry fruit to soak them up over the next year or two.
2017-22
2013 Finca La Anita Corte G
Mendoza 14.5%
Antonio and Manuel Mas’ blend is a cuvée of Malbec with 5% each of Cabernet Sauvignon
and Petit Verdot. Scented, well balanced and stylishly oaked, it’s a plushly textured Agrelo
style with plump blackberry fruit and balancing acidity. 2016-21
2015 Finca Las Moras Barrel Select Malbec
Pedernal 14%
Taken from Las Moras’ extensive plantings in the Pedernal Valley, this is typical of the
quality emerging from this altitude corner of San Juan. Grippy, almost bloody tannins,
limestone freshness and scented, dark berry fruit are underscored by acidity and focus.
2016-21
2014 Finca Las Moras Paz Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc
San Juan 14.5%
A 50/50 blend of two grapes and two origins - the Pedernal and Zonda Valleys - this is
another impressive showing from San Juan, confirming that the region is on the up. Spices,
some wood smoke, cassis and violet, with underlying blueberry fruit sweetness and acidity.
2016-20
2014 Finca Suarez Malbec
The Suarez family own some of the oldest vineyards in the Uco Valley but have only recently
started making their own wine under fourth generation member, Juanfa Suarez. This is a
refined, elegant style with subtle oak, freshness and focus. A winery to watch. 2016-20
2013 Fincas Don Martino Malbec Gran Reserva
Mendoza 14.9%
Showing more oak and alcohol than the more refreshing Reserva bottling, but this is still an
impressive wine from the Primera Zona close to the city of Mendoza. Ripe and concentrated,
with amble black fig and blueberry fruit complemented by scented vanilla spice. 2016-21
2014 Graffigna Santiago Graffigna Limited Release
San Juan 14.5%
The top wine from this large and improving winery is Malbec based with 30% Syrah and
15% Cabernet Sauvignon. The shift to all Pedernal Valley fruit has made a big difference to
this wine, imbuing it with focus, intense black fruits and minerality. The oak is well digested
here. 2017-22
2012 Hacienda del Plata Arriero Reserve Blend
This Luján blend combines Malbec with 24% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Syrah. It’s a ripe,
textured style with seamless integration of the three varieties. Concentrated and serious, it’s
rich, densely fruity and aromatic. 2016-21
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2011 Hacienda del Plata Mayoral Grand Reserve Malbec
The grapes for this high altitude Malbec all come from the Pedernal Valley and show the
thick, minerally, muscular tannins that are a feature of the local wines. Grippy and firm it
may be, but this sweetly oaked wine has plenty of crunchy blackberry and damson fruit for
balance. 2016-20
2012 Humberto Canale Merlot Gran Reserva
Río Negro 14%
Known as Selección de Familia in some markets, this has always been one of Argentina’s
better varietal Merlots, made in an elegant, refined style that shows leafy, grassy purity and
some spicy, but not intrusive oak. 2016-20
2012 Humberto Canale Old Vineyard Pinot Noir
Río Negro 14%
This old vine Pinot Noir is all about perfume and finesse, rather than oak. Savoury, sweet and
well balanced, it has lovely texture, succulent raspberry and wild strawberry fruit and the
bright acidity that’s a feature of Río Negro wines. 2016-19
2013 La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Pinot Noir
Mendoza 14%
Tasted last year, but still available in the market place, this doesn’t rival the whites from
the same bodega, but it still one of Mendoza’s better Pinot Noirs. Savoury, sweet and
comparatively developed, it’s a warm climate style with notes of wild strawberry and tomato
skin and a touch of oak. 2016-18
2014 La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Tempranillo
Uco Valley 13.5%
Sourced, like most of the best Tempranillo in Argentina, from the southern end of the Uco
Valley, this comes from a 40-year-old block in El Cepillo. Unfiltered and floral, it’s half way to
a Pinot Noir in style, with juicy, red berry fruit, refreshing acidity and a nip of tannin.
2016-19
2012 La Tierra Nace Gran Marantal
Vistalba 14%
If this tastes a little bit like a wine from Weinert, that’s because the two wineries share the
same oenologist, Hubert Weber. Aged for two years in large, old oak “toneles”, it’s smooth,
scented and complex with fine tannins, savoury red fruits and refreshing acidity. 2016-21
2013 Lagarde Guarda Malbec DOC
Sourced entirely from the designated Luján de Cuyo appellation, this is a ripe, supple,
comparatively forward style showing smooth tannins, fruitcake and raspberry notes, well
integrated oak and supporting acidity. An early drinking style. 2016-19
2013 Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Typical of the quality of the best Agrelo Cabernets, this is smooth yet well structured with
impressive varietal purity: cassis, damson and a note of green herbs. The tannins are
structured but elegant, the oak well integrated, the acidity refreshing and focused. 2016-22
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2012 Los Toneles Gran Tonel 137 Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
I’m not sure if the word “Gran” refers to the size of the oak container or the ambition of the
wine here, but no matter. This is a ripe, figgy, deftly oaked Malbec showing succulent berry
fruit, bright acidity and chalky undertone. 2016-19
2013 Los Toneles Tonel 46 Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.1%
The Tonel series from the Millan family is a source of excellent value from Argentina, with
the focus on fruit rather than oak. This is dense, aromatic and savoury with good grip,
savoury spice and intense dark fruits. 2016-19
2013 Los Toneles Tonel 78 Barrel Select
Mendoza 14.3%
Ale Vigil is the consultant to this up-and-coming winery. This cuvée of Malbec and Bonarda
is oakier than the rest of the Los Toneles range, but has plenty of tannin and dark fruits for
support. Firm and well structured, with a savoury finish. 2016-20
2013 Luigi Bosca De Sangre
Mendoza 14.5%
De Sangre is a three-way blend of Cabernet, Syrah and a splash of Merlot. It’s soft and
comparatively forward in style with supple raspberry and bramble fruit, some rose petal
perfume and a nip of tannin on the finish. Easy drinking with subtle oak notes. 2016-19
2012 Luigi Bosca Finca Los Nobles Cabernet/Bouchet
Mendoza 14%
This is a field blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Bouchet, a grape which is apparently related
to Cabernet Franc. It’s quite an old-fashioned style, with lashings of oak and firmish tannins,
but there’s enough dark berry fruit concentration for balance and to suggest that the wine
will soften with age. 2016-21
2015 Manos Negras Pinot Noir
Neuquén 14%
This value-for-money Pinot Noir comes from the Añelo sub-region of Neuquén and is
typically well made. It’s good plenty of juicy berry fruit, with red cherry and strawberry to
the fore, and a stony, grippy backbone of fine tannins. 2016-19
2015 Marcelo Miras Salvaje Pinot Noir
You can’t accuse Marcelo Miras of playing it safe with this co-fermented blend of Sauvignon
Blanc and Pinot Noir. It’s a pale, unoaked wine with a pinkish tinge, tangy, redcurrant and
rhubarb-like notes and a fresh, crunchy finish. 2016-18
2014 Marcelo Pelleriti Kauzo Malbec
Uco Valley 14.5%
Marcelo Pelleriti’s excellent value Malbec is made with purchased grapes from La Consulta
and Paraje Altamira, aged in older oak. It’s an impressive début, displaying a combination of
serious, plummy fruit, fresh acidity and firm, yet integrated tannins. 2016-20
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2014 Mater Vini Antes Andes Malbec
Canota Valley 14.5%
Santiago Achaval’s search for “older geologies” has taken him to the Canota Valley, 20 miles
north of Mendoza, where he planted this vineyard in 2011. Spicy and dense, this is a firm
wine that’s almost reminiscent of a Cornas, with hints of inky, grippy blackberry fruit and a
structured finish. 2017-22
2014 Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Caliche Bonarda
Uco Valley 12%
Very much influenced by the Michelinis’ way of doing things, this old vine Bonarda sees 30%
whole bunches and is aged in five year old barrels. Low in alcohol and extraction, it’s a fresh,
sappy, well-balanced red that’s a joy to drink. 2016-19
2013 Mosquita Muerta Pispi Blend de Tintas
Vista Flores 14.5%
Pispi comes from Chacayes and is a cuvée of Malbec with 20% each of Cabernet Franc,
Cabernet Sauvignon and Bonarda, overseen by Alejandro Vigil. Ripe yet sappy, it’s a cement
fermented and aged style with a winning combination of fruit intensity, fine tannins and
2012 Mosquita Muerta Sapo de Otro Pozo
Vista Flores 14%
Another impressive blend from this Grupo Millan-owned winery, combining Malbec
with 20% each of Cabernet Franc and Syrah. Spice from 40% whole bunches, early picked
strawberry and red plum fruit, bright acidity and no oak: this is tasty stuff at an appealing
price. 2016-19
2011 Navarro Correas Structura Ultra
Mendoza 15%
One of the more old-fashioned wines in the Navarro Correas line-up, with higher alcohol,
slightly riper, figgy fruit and more prominent oak. Smoky, sweet and textured, this is an
attractive blend of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon that’s best drunk sooner rather than
later. 2016-18
2014 Nieto Senetiner Collection Blend
Luján de Cuyo 14%
There’s a slightly feral, gamey note to this blend of Malbec with 40% Cabernet Franc, but it’s
acceptable in the context of what is a slightly old-fashioned style of red. Focused, firm and
intense, with a sturdy backbone of tannin and lots of vigorous, youthful fruit flavours.
2016-20
2014 Nieto Senetiner Don Nicanor Malbec
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Made in quite a traditional style, but this Luján Malbec from Roberto González is still a
good expression of the so-called Primera Zona, close to the city of Mendoza. Stylish oak,
firm, medium-weight tannins and refreshing acidity are complemented by savoury plum and
damson notes. 2016-20
2013 Nieto Senetiner Malbec
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Being one of the cheaper reds in the Nieto range, this sees less oak and is fresher and more
drinkable as a result. Smooth, sweet and floral with tangy acidity and just a hint of vanilla
spice, it’s juicy and well balanced. 2016-18
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2013 Norton Perdriel Colección Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel 14%
A classic, easy-drinking Cabernet from Luján, made with the fruit forward flavours and
stylish oak that are typical of the Norton style. There’s more tannin in this wine than is
immediately apparent, complemented by a refreshing minerally finish and plenty of cassis
and plum notes. 2016-19
2015 O Fournier Urban Uco Malbec/Tempranillo
Uco Valley 14.5%
One of few Malbec/Tempranillo blends in Argentina, reflecting the Spanish origins
of the owner, this is all about fruit and drinkability. Raspberry and plum flavours are
complemented by a nip of tannin, fresh acidity and understated barrel influence. 2016-19
2015 Ojo de Agua Puro Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo 14%
The only wine at this bodega that isn’t made from organically grown grapes, this Malbec/
Cabernet Sauvignon cuvée is smooth, focused and ripe, showing the classic texture of Agrelo
reds, a tannic backbone and bright, balancing acidity. 2016-19
2013 Paimán Keo Malbec Roble
Chañarmuyo Valley 14.5%
Paimán is the only producer in Chañarmuyo, growing grapes at up to 1,720 metres, planted
in 2000. Stony, complex and very mineral, this has fine tannins, impressive grip and floral,
raspberry sweetness underpinned by acidity. A region and a winery (the same thing, after all)
to watch. 2016-19
2014 Pascual Toso Malbec Reserva
Mendoza 14.5%
Sourced entirely from Barrancas in the eastern part of Mendoza, this is a plush, palatecoating Malbec with plenty of colour and skilful use of French and mostly American oak.
Bramble, liquorice and blueberry fruit combine with scented vanilla and coconut notes.
2016-20
2014 Piattelli Premium Reserve Malbec
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Unlike most of the Piattelli range, this one comes from Luján de Cuyo in Mendoza. It’s an
attractive style, showing plenty of chocolatey oak as well as dark berry fruit, violet and
liquorice aromas, supple tannins and refreshing acidity. 2016-21
2011 Piedra Negra Gran Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley 15%
Combining Cabernet with 15% Malbec, this comes from a vineyard that was planted in 2000.
Rich and concentrated, with inky, blackberry and damson flavours, a fistful of dried herbs
and plenty of oak. The tannins are possibly a little firm. 2016-20
2013 Proemio Wines Grand Reserve
Mendoza 14.6%
I prefer this blend of Malbec with 30% Merlot and 10% each of Syrah and Cabernet
Sauvignon to Proemio’s Icon wine. It’s still quite an oaky red, but it has the concentration to
age. Mint, dried herbs and savoury cassis and berry fruit are complemented by refreshing
acidity. 2017-21
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2014 Pulenta Estate La Flor Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo 14.5%
This Cabernet is the best of the current La Flor range, demonstrating how well the variety
performs in Agrelo. Spicy and aromatic, with 30% oak adding a toasty note, it’s round, supple
and grassy with refreshing acidity. 2016-20
2012 Rutini Merlot
Mendoza 14.4%
Another example of Mariano di Paola’s special touch with Merlot (not that easy to make as a
single varietal in Argentina) this is soft, smooth and grassy with plum and blackcurrant fruit,
stylish oak and fine-grained tannins. 2016-20
2014 Salentein Barrel Selection Pinot Noir
Uco Valley 13.5%
Sweet and slightly jammy, this forward, well made Pinot Noir is textured and attractive,
with understated oak, some chalky freshness and redcurrant and raspberry fruit. A good
introduction to the under-rated joys of Uco Pinot. 2016-19
2013 Seclantas Adentro
Salta 15.5%
Seclantas Adentro belongs to two Parisian lawyers and made its first wines in 2011 from two
hectares north of the town of Molinos. This Tannat is the better of the bodega’s two wines,
exhibiting the backbone and acidity that’s typical of the grape, subtle oak and ripe, savoury,
fruit cake flavours. 2016-18
2012 Tempus Alba Syrah
Anchoris 14%
Aldo Biondillo’s main focus is on Malbec, a grape that he is helping to redefine in Argentina,
but this shows that Anchoris, located south of Ugarteche, is also a good place to grow Syrah.
Smooth red cherry and raspberry fruit, some clove and nutmeg spice and fine-grained
tannins. 2016-19
2014 Tintonegro Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
Made “to show freshness”, according to Alejandro Sejanovich, this is a cuvée of grapes from
Los Arboles, Chacayes and San Carlos, aged in old oak. It’s still a pretty serious wine at the
price, with structured tannins supporting the plum and damson fruit flavours. 2016-21
2014 Trapiche Broquel Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14%
Like the Malbec under the same label, this wine is varietally pure and delivers a lot of flavour
at its price point. It’s a pan-Mendoza blend, using grapes from Maipú, Agrelo and the Uco
Valley and showing notes of dried herbs, green pepper and graphite and stylishly integrated
oak. 2016-20
2014 Trapiche Broquel Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Broquel is an under-rated brand in my view, typified by this stylish Uco Valley Malbec.
Pepper and clove spice, good focus, plenty of floral perfume, sappy tannins and understated
oak make this a great value red from Argentina’s biggest producer. 2016-21
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2014 Trapiche Oak Cask Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza 14%
This is a blend of fruit from Maipú and the Uco Valley, with a dash from Salta “for spice”,
according to Daniel Pi. Dried herbs, firmish tannins and plenty of blackcurrant and damson
fruit are complemented by scented oak and refreshing acidity. 2016-20
2015 Trapiche Pure Malbec
Who says Malbec needs oak? This stainless steel fermented example is a joy to sniff and
drink. Dark berries, violets. Liquorice and smooth tannins are underpinned by refreshing,
Uco Valley acidity and a hint of minerality. 2016-19
2013 Tres 14 Tinto de Garage
Vista Flores 14.5%
The source of Daniel Pi’s entry point wine has moved from Lunlunta to Vista Flores, resulting
in a red with more acidity than in 2012. It’s a floral style, with very little oak influence and
lots of ripe black fruits complemented by smooth tannins. 2016-19
2013 Tukma Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Cafayate 13.8%
Showing good varietal character, because of the cold nights according to owner Fernando
Maurette, this is a spicy, well made Cabernet with attractive oak, fine tannins and aromatic,
herbal, slightly wild fruit flavours. 2016-18
2014 Vaglio Aggie Malbec
Uco Valley 14.2%
José Lavaglio Balbo’s winery is definitely a name to keep an eye on in Mendoza. Sourced
from the southern part of Gualtallary, this is very chalky, pithy and focused, but showing
quite a bit of oak and tannin at the moment. The wine should soften and integrate over the
next year or two. 2017-22
2014 Vaglio Temple Malbec
Anchoris 14%
Temple Malbec comes from an 80-year-old vineyard in the north east of the Uco Valley. It’s
an aromatic, savoury red that isn’t quite as exciting as the 2013 release, but is still a serious
Malbec that’s built to age. The tannins just need to soften in bottle. 2017-23
2013 Valle Las Nencias Malbec Reserve
Mendoza 14.5%
Co-owned by the Giol, Toso and Gargantini families, this La Consulta winery makes
attractive, medium-weight wines. This is a classic Uco Valley style, mixing blackberry and
black cherry fruit weight with freshness and acidity. The oak is particularly well integrated
here. 2016-21
NV Vicentin Maldito
Mendoza 15.5%
Maldito is an intriguing, solera system-style red blend of the 2011, 2012 and 2013 vintages,
made with Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It’s a rich, ripe, figgy number
with firmish tannins, lots of ripe, complex fruit flavours and enough acidity and freshness for
balance. 2016-19
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2012 Viña Alicia Brote Negro Malbec
Mendoza 14.5%
Sourced from old vines in Luján de Cuyo, some of them over 100 years old, this is firm, dense
and quite chewy, with stylish oak adding some sweetness, as does the savoury, concentrated
blackberry and dark plum fruit. Accompnay with a thick steak to enjoy at its best. 2016-20
2010 Viña Alicia Cuarzo Petit Verdot
Mendoza 14.7%
You need to get Petit Verdot pretty ripe to have a chance of taming its firm tannins, and
this wine does exactly that. It’s a rich, heady red with savoury, dried herb notes, plenty of
backbone and structure and tangy acidity. 2016-19
2013 Viña Alicia Paso de Piedra Malbec
More evolved than previous releases at this stage, possibly because of the tricky vintage, but
this is still a refined, scented Luján Malbec from this impressive bodega. Flavours of dried
mint, Asian spices, subtle vanilla oak and refreshing acidity combine appealingly here.
2016-20
2014 Viña Cobos Cocodrillo Corte
Mendoza 14.5%
The Cocodrillo Corte is a cuvée of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with 16% Cabernet Franc and
7% Malbec. It’s a pan-Mendoza blend of Uco and Agrelo fruit with smooth, smoky flavours,
some leafy undertones, a hint of spice and well judged oak. It’s on the ripe side, but well
balanced. 2016-20
2013 Viña Las Perdices Don Juan Reserva
Agrelo 15%
The Don Juan blend marries Malbec with 11% Syrah, 10% Bonarda and 9% Merlot and is
every bit as seductive and smooth-tongued as one would hope. Modern, stylish and aromatic
it’s rich and ripe but very well balanced. 2016-21
2012 Weinert Carrascal Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo 14%
Youthful by the venerable standards of this winery, this only spends a year in old oak before
bottling. It’s a more forward wine, but I wouldn’t bet against it ageing, given the acidity, focus
and fine-grained tannins here. Traditional but clean. 2016-19
2014 Zorzal Terroir Unico Pinot Noir
Tupungato 13.6%
Cement-fermented and aged, with 20% whole bunches adding a little grip and definition, this
is a light, savoury, attractive Pinot Noir with sweet raspberry and red cherry fruit flavours,
zesty acidity and a mineral bite. 2016-19
2015 Zuccardi Serie A Malbec
Uco Valley 14%
Sebastián Zuccardi uses grapes from the length and breadth of the Uco Valley in this panregional Malbec, made without oak to allow the aromatic plum, blackberry and violet notes
full expression. A very serious wine at the price, this is a great introduction to the joys of the
winery’s Malbec range. 2016-19
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2013 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Bones Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13%
White Bones is sourced from the easterly section of the Adrianna Vineyard and tends to
be weightier than its stable mate, White Stones, seeing 100% malolactic. This is a superb
Chardonnay, with power and concentration balanced by freshness and chalky minerality.
Long and complex, it has the struck match notes that are so reminiscent of Burgundy.
2016-20
2014 La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Sauvignon Blanc
Mendoza 13.5%
Another example of Giuseppe Franceschini pushing the boundaries. Barrel-fermented and
unfiltered, this comes El Peral and is a very focused, pithy wine that takes Sauvignon Blanc
to a new level in Argentina. Grapefruit, oyster shell notes and a stony, minerally palate
combine beautifully here. 2016-20
2014 Piedra Negra Gran Lurton
Uco Valley 13.5%
Hats off to François Lurton for planting Tocai Friulano in Argentina, blended here with
15% Viognier and 5% Sauvignon Blanc, all of it barrel fermented in mostly older oak. It’s
a northern Italy meets Burgundy style, with flavours of pink grapefruit, slight reduction,
subtle, savoury oak and some stone fruit sweetness. One of Argentina’s very best whites.
2016-20
2015 Riccitelli Wines Old Vines Semillon
Patagonia 14%
There are only 2,500 bottles of this old vine Semillon, alas, made from purchased grapes
and fermented in a combination of old oak and concrete. Leesy, herbal and textured, with
flavours of honeysuckle, green herbs and pear spice. A remarkable debut from this brilliant
young winemaker. 2016-19
2014 Blanchard y Lurton
Uco Valley 13.5%
Using the very successful template established at Piedra Negra, this is a Tocai Friulanobased white blend with 30% Viognier and 5% each of Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Savoury,
crisp and stylishly oaked, this is a beautifully judged, harmonious cuvée with notes of
grapefruit, peach and white flowers. A very impressive début. 2016-20
2013 Bressia Lágrima Canela
Uco Valley 14%
Walter Bressia’s blend of Chardonnay with 30% Semillon is always among the best whites in
Argentina, fermented in new oak and combining the two varieties with real aplomb. Baking
spices, cream and some herbal notes are complemented by hints of toast, vanilla and tangy
acidity. 2016-19
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2013 Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13%
Picked in four stages for different fruit profiles, this high altitude Chardonnay from the
Adrianna Vineyard comes, as its name suggests, from limestone-dominated soils. Taut,
concentrated and sappy, with pronounced citrus fruit flavours, subtle vanilla spice and a core
of minerally acidity. 2016-22
2015 Colomé Altura Máxima Lote Especial Sauvignon Blanc
Salta 13.5%
Sauvignon Blanc only represents two out of the 25 hectares planted at the highest vineyard in
the world, but in this, its second vintage, the grape has already demonstrated that it’s capable
of something special. Saline and refreshing, with a touch of oak attractive green herbs and
grapefruity freshness, it’s like a Salta take on Sancerre. 2016-20
2015 Dominio del Plata White Blend
Uco Valley 12.5%
A mould-breaking, low alcohol cuvée of Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, all from
the Uco Valley and two-thirds fermented in concrete eggs. Grapefruit, gooseberry and struck
match notes are complemented by a hint of oak on the Torrontés. One of the country’s best
whites in year one. 2016-19
2014 La Giostra del Vino Bacán Sauvignon Blanc Reserva
Vista Flores 13.7%
Italian oenologist Giuseppe Franceschini is one of the best white wine producers in
Argentina. This partially barrel-fermented Sauvignon is made with purchased grapes from
Vista Flores and is beautifully judged, combining a hint of struck match reduction, focused
acidity, grapefruit and lemon zest notes and a saline freshness. 2016-18
2015 Mendel Semillon
Pale in colour, as it often is, but not short of intensity, this delicious Altamira Semillon sees
no malolactic fermentation so as to maintain its freshness and ageing potential. The 15% new
oak is folded into the wine, complementing the savoury, herbal fruit notes and citrus-edged
fruit. 2016-20
2013 Salentein Single Vineyard Chardonnay Plot No. 2
Uco Valley 13.5%
Pepe Galante makes some of the best Chardonnays in Argentina and has a good feel for the
grape. This comes from a plot located at 1,600 metres, picked even later in this cool vintage.
The toasty oak is well integrated here, complementing the citrus, spice and lemongrass notes.
2016-21
2015 Alpamanta Estate Breva Sauvignon Blanc
Ugarteche 14.1%
One of the few Argentinean wineries that are both organic and biodynamic, Alpamanta
makes a daring, unfiltered Sauvignon from its vineyard in Ugarteche. Creamy, leesy and
subtly oaked, this has notes of wax and pink grapefruit and a tapering, satisfying finish.
2016-19
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2014 Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Chardonnay
Mendoza 13.9%
You can rely on Ale Vigil to push the envelope of Argentinean winemaking. This Gualtallary
Chardonnay was partially aged under flor, like a Vin Jaune, giving the wine a nutty
undertone. Savoury, spicy and focused, with a creamy texture from lees contact and a
whisper of oak. 2016-19
2015 Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Barrel-Fermented Torrontés
Uco Valley 14%
Consistently the best and most complex Torrontés in Argentina, this comes from a parcel of
vines in Paraje Altamira and is entirely barrel-fermented. Smoky, sappy and complex with
a touch of struck match, refreshing acidity and a chalky, minerally bite. The oak is just a
whisper here. 2016-19
2010 José-Luis Mounier Laguna Brava Torrontés
Selected Reserve
Cafayate 14%
It’s hard to believe that this six-year-old Torrontés is the current release of this wine until
you taste it. Savoury, rich and complex, it’s a barrel-fermented style that combines notes of
honey, dried herbs and mint with orange zest and refreshing acidity. The oak is beautifully
handled here. 2016-18
2014 Luca G Lot Chardonnay
Gualtallary 14%
G stands for Gualtallary in this case and this is a wine that certainly does hit the spot. It’s a
focused, well balanced Chardonnay with notes of citrus and baking spices, understated oak,
some creamy, lees-derived weight and a pithy, refreshing finish. 2016-20
2014 O Fournier A Crux Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley 12%
Barrel-fermented and aged in older oak, this is always one of the best Sauvignons in
Argentina, a grapefruity, Graves-style white with a stylish combination of lees-ageing and
reduction, underpinned by zesty minerality and complemented by a note of vanilla spice. It
ages well too. 2016-20
2015 Riccitelli Wines Vineyard Selection Chardonnay
Uco Valley 14%
This comes from Las Careras in the cooler, upper part of the Uco Valley and combines
old oak and concrete fermentations. Savoury and stylish with well integrated toast and
vanilla spice, leesy texture and bright, refreshing acidity. Definitely at the fresher end of the
Chardonnay spectrum. 2016-19
2013 Salentein Primus Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13.5%
Primus is made in a slightly fuller style than the Plot 2 Chardonnay, and comes from a
warmer site, but it’s hardly a blockbuster. Some tropical fruit sweetness, honey and spicy oak
are underpinned by acidity and freshness here. 2016-19
2014 Trapiche Gran Medalla Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13.5%
Only 5% of this Gualtallary Chardonnay saw any oak, allowing the focused, almost Chablislike flavours to express themselves. Tangy and taut, with chalky, oyster shell-like notes, some
creamy lees and an undertone of cinnamon spice: in short, this is my kind of wine. 2016-21
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2015 Zorzal Eggo Blanc de Cal
Gualtallary 13.4%
Mixing fruit from San Pablo at 1,600 metres and the chalky soils of Gualtallary, this is a
stylish, almost Sancerre-like Sauvignon with flavours of cut grass and green herbs, bracing
acidity, some lees-derived richness and a tangy finish. 2016-18
2015 Andeluna Altitud Chardonnay
Tupungato 13.8%
At Andeluna, the shift towards fresher, better balanced wines continues under Manuel
González, typified by this partially barrel-fermented Uco Valley Chardonnay. Focused
and refreshing, with flavours of vanilla spice, white pepper and a core of sappy lemon and
grapefruit flavours. 2016-19
2015 Atamisque Catalpa Chardonnay
Mendoza 14.5%
Atamisque is better known for its subtle, elegant reds than its whites, but this is a very
impressive Chardonnay. Judiciously oaked, with 50% of the wine fermented in stainless
steel, this is a refreshing, nuanced white with citrus and stone fruit flavours complemented
by minerality. 2016-19
2015 Bodega Tacuil RD Sauvignon Blanc
Molinos 13.6%
Who would imagine that a vineyard dotted with cacti could produce a Sauvignon Blanc that
tastes as good as this? And, what’s more, that it ages well? Green herbs, lemongrass and
grapefruit notes are complemented by pithy acidity. 2016-20
2014 Chakana Estate Selection Chardonnay
Paraje Altamira 13%
Using a combination of concrete eggs, stainless steel and oak for its fermentation, this is an
impressive Chardonnay from one of the Uco Valley’s best sub-regions. Natural yeasts add a
layer of complexity to this sappy, subtle, refreshing white. 2016-18
2015 Colomé Torrontés
Salta 13.5%
Thibaut Delmotte picks his Torrontés late, but gives it a long and very cool fermentation on
its lees. The result is crunchy and flavoursome, with good palate weight and floral, lychee and
citrus fruit notes, balanced by a creamy mid palate. 2016-17
2015 DiamAndes de Uco Viognier
Uco Valley 14.4%
A wine that has established itself as the best Viognier in the country in recent years, using
a subtle combination of older barrels, stainless steel and partial malolactic fermentation to
tease the best out of the grape. Creamy yet focused, with peach and citrus notes and a kiss of
vanilla oak. 2016-18
2014 Doña Paula Estate Chardonnay
Uco Valley 14%
The Doña Paula Chardonnay style favours fruit over oak, with two thirds of the fermentation
in stainless steel. Focused, crisp and lemony, with a dusting of baking spices, subtle barrel
integration and a long, focused, minerally finish, this is appealingly understated. 2016-19
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2015 Doña Paula Estate Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley 13%
A blend of Uco sites and picking dates bring complexity to what is always one of the best
Sauvignons in Argentina. Grapefruit, chalk and a hint of “struck match” reduction are
complemented by crunchy acidity and pure varietal intensity. 2016-19
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2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Torrontés
Oak-Fermented
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2014 Escorihuela Gascón Pequeñas Producciones
Chardonnay 1884
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Cafayate 13%
Made for the first time in 2011, this partially (50%) barrel-fermented white is one of the
most complex Torrontés in Argentina. Spice, orange zest and citrus peel flavours are
complemented by subtle, vanilla-scented oak. 2016-18
Mendoza 13.9%
Showing greater richness and texture than the more citrus-edged recent releases, this is a
spicy, lightly honeyed style of Chardonnay, complemented by savoury oak, lees-derived notes
and a hint of grapefruit. 2016-19
2015 Gen de Alma Ji Ji Ji Finca Villa Seca Chenin Blanc
Uco Valley 10.5%
Gen di Alma is the personal project of Gerardo and Andrea Michelini, dedicated to making
“off-the-wall” wines such as this unfiltered, concrete egg-fermented Chenin Blanc. Early
picked to retain acidity, it’s sappy and zesty with pear and green apple fruit and a creamy,
lees-influenced mid-palate. 2016-18
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2015 Humberto Canale Semillon Finca Milagros
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2014 José-Luis Mounier Torrontés
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Río Negro 12.7%
Released for the first time in 2015, but sourced from a vineyard planted in 1942, this is one of
a growing number of impressive Semillons from Patagonia. Picked early to retain acidity, it’s
smoky, waxy and citrus-fresh, with appealing lees-derived texture and a herbal undertone.
2016-19
Cafayate 13.5%
Pushing the boundaries of Torrontés, using partial skin contact and some barrel
fermentation, has enabled José-Luis Mounier to produce a very stylish, even complex
example of the grape, with orange peel and citrus notes complemented by aromatic oak. Very
assured. 2016-18
2015 Luigi Bosca Riesling
Las Compuertas 13%
Luigi Bosca’s Riesling is one of only a handful of good examples of the grape in Argentina,
sourced from 18-year-old vineyards in Las Compuertas. It’s a floral, dry style with focused
acidity, stony minerality and notes of lime and hawthorn blossom. It will age well, too.
2016-21
2015 Marcelo Miras Semillon
Alto Valle de Río Negro 14%
Marcelo Miras is one of the best winemakers in Patagonia, so it’s appropriate that he should be
in the vanguard of the region’s Semillon revolution. Fresh, zesty and made without oak, this has
notes of lemon peel and fresh green herbs and a creamy, lees-influenced mid-palate. 2016-19
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2015 Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Blanc de Noir
Gualtallary 11%
Cristián Morelli’s wines were an exciting discovery for me this year. This is a daring,
innovative blend of Chenin Blanc, 10% Moscatel and 20% Malbec, the last grape fermented
as a white wine. No oak, natural yeasts, zesty acidity and spicy, savoury pear and apple fruit
make this a delightfully complex cuvée. 2016-18
2014 Onofri Wines Zenith Nadir
Mendoza 13%
Mariana Onofri only makes 1,600 bottles of this wine with the help of consultant Giuseppe
Franceschini, which is a shame, because it deserves a wider audience. Blending Chardonnay
with Sauvignon Blanc and Fiano, and complemented by subtle oak, this has a hint of good
reduction and flavours of pear, grapefruit and greengage. Complex and refreshing. 2016-19
2015 Pulenta Estate Chardonnay
Agrelo 13%
Half of this wine was fermented in stainless steel to preserve fruit and freshness in the
bottle. Well-integrated oak is complemented by stone fruit and citrus notes and impressive
focus and length. The Pulenta Chardonnay has settled into an attractive stylistic groove.
2016-18
2015 San Pedro de Yacochuya
Salta 13.9%
An innovative Salta blend that combines Torrontés with 50% Sauvignon Blanc from Bodega
Tacuil. The latter variety gives some much needed freshness and acidity to the Torrontés,
as well as an extra dimension of flavour. Grapefruit, guava and orange zest notes jostle
appealingly on the palate here. 2016-18
2015 Terrazas de los Andes Chardonnay Reserva
Mendoza 13.8%
Terrazas has always made one of Argentina’s best Chardonnays and that’s still the case in
2015. Sourced from the high Uco Valley and half-fermented in stainless steel, it’s toasty and
refreshing with citrus and stone fruit flavours, good minerality and a touch of struck match
reduction. 2016-19
2015 Underground Vinilo Ruido Blanco
Gualtallary 12.6%
Made at Zorzal, but by Marcelo Franchetti rather than one of the many Michelinis, this is an
intriguing, cement-fermented blend of Chenin Blanc and Chardonnay with tangy acidity, a
touch of attractive bitterness from skin contact, notes of pear and fresh apple and a tangy,
citrus-edged finish. 2016-19
2014 Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Chardonnay
Mendoza 14.5%
The Cobos style of Chardonnay is firmly aimed at the American market, with full malolactic,
plenty of oak and ripe, butterscotchy fruit. Honeyed and soft, this is full of flavour, but is
definitely an earlier drinking style with comparatively low levels of acidity. 2016-18
2015 Zuccardi Q Chardonnay
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Uco Valley 13.8%
A wine that’s getting better and better each year. Showing very little oak and a blocked
malolactic fermentation in 2015, it’s fresher and more focused than ever, with texture from
lees-contact and bright, lemon, stone and pear flavours. 2016-18
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2015 Alamos Viognier
Mendoza 13.5%
Something of a bargain within the reliable Alamos range from Catena, this has a touch
of oak, partial malolactic fermentation and classic spice, stone fruit and pear flavours. A
commendable expression of a variety that Argentina is only just beginning to master.
2016-17
2015 Altupalka Sauvignon Blanc Extremo
Salta 13.6%
Alejandro Martorell is a man who makes things happen, so I have every confidence that this
comparatively new venture will be a success. This Sauvignon is made at Colomé and has a
sappy combination of mange tout, lemongrass and grapefruit flavours and a hint of sweet
gooseberry. 2016-17
2015 Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Chardonnay
Río Negro 13.7%
Agustín Lombroni favours concrete fermentations for his Chardonnay, only 10% of which
sees any oak. The style here is fresh and crisp, with subtle vanilla spice, zesty minerality and
balanced, citrus and lemongrass notes. 2016-18
2014 Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay
Uco Valley 14%
Combining fruit from the Domingo and Adrianna vineyards, both in Gualtallary, this is more
old-fashioned than some of the Catena Chardonnays, showing a hint of honey from botrytis,
subtle oak and sweet stone fruit flavours, but it’s still a very well made expression of the
grape. 2016-18
2015 Catena Appellation Chardonnay
Tupungato 13.5%
The Catena appellation wines deliver on the promise of this seven-years-in-the-making
project. This lightly oaked, pear and citrus fruity Chardonnay shows Alejandro Vigil’s skill
with the variety, exhibiting the freshness and salinity of the best high Uco Valley examples.
2016-19
2015 Chakana Nuna White Blend
Mendoza 14%
First released in 2013, this wild yeast-fermented blend of equal parts Chardonnay and
Sauvignon Blanc with 20% Viognier has no oak, but plenty of peach and melon fruit
supported by the zip and zest of the Sauvignon. One of a growing number of interesting white
cuvées. 2016-18
2015 Dominio del Plata Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay
Uco Valley 14.5%
You don’t notice the 100% malolactic fermentation here, such is the freshness of the acidity.
The oak is nicely understated, too, allowing the mineral-edged citrus fruit to express itself.
Despite the comparatively high alcohol, it’s a very modern style of Chardonnay that nods
towards the Old World. 2016-19
2015 Doña Paula Estate Riesling
Gualtallary 13.5%
Deliberately made in a very dry style and bottled under screw cap for maximum freshness,
this perfumed, unoaked style shows its cool climate origins, with brisk acidity, lime and a
whiff of kerosene and good palate weight. 2016-20
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2015 El Esteco Ciclos Torrontés
The Ciclos bottling is mostly sourced from a parcel planted in 1945 and is partially barrel
fermented in older oak. It’s a weightier, more complex wine than the Don David release, with
the barrels adding an extra dimension of vanilla spice. A tweak of the acidity level gives this
more bite and focus. 2016-18
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard
Chardonnay
Cafayate 13.7%
Unusually for a Chardonnay, this is made from bush vines, grown at an altitude of 1,900
metres in the Finca Alto Los Cuises. Among the best Chardonnays in Salta, which is not
to damn it with faint praise, this is fresh and zesty, with citrus and pear fruit and well
integrated cinnamon oak. 2016-20
2015 El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Torrontés
Cafayate 12.8%
Picked in three stages to give Torrontés a range of different flavours and levels of maturity,
this hails from old parral vines in Finca El Retiro. Citrus, lychee and fresh grape characters
combine appealingly on the palate, supported by acidity. 2016-17
2014 Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Viognier
Tupungato 13.8%
Santiago Reta’s Tupungato winery is getting better with every vintage. Made by Giuseppe
Franceschini, the king of Argentinean white wine, this balanced Viognier is a very subtle,
seductively aromatic Viognier with notes of cream, apricot and cinnamon and refreshing
acidity. 2016-18
2015 Finca Quara Torrontés
Cafayate 13.5%
One of my favourite Cafayate Torrontés, this stainless steel fermented white has all the
good things about the variety (perfume and charm) and none of the bad ones (oiliness and
bitterness). Stylish and floral with tangy, citrus acidity. 2016-17
2015 Lagarde Semillon
Mendoza 11.9%
Lagarde’s Semillon comes from a parcel planted on its own roots in Drummond in 1906.
Picked in two stages and fermented in stainless steel, it’s a crisp, fresh, herbal style
complemented by notes of wax and citrus peel. 2016-20
2013 Navarro Correas Alegoría Chardonnay
Uco Valley 12.7%
Fabián Gardino’s upper Uco Valley Chardonnay is very much in a modern, refreshing style,
with low alcohol, bright acidity, subtle oak and flavours of citrus and pear. Typical of the
improvements at Navarro Correas in recent vintages. 2016-19
2014 Norton Reserva Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13.7%
This is a more elegant style of Chardonnay than in the past, reflecting the arrival of
winemaker David Bonomi and its Uco Valley origins. Entirely fermented in French oak, the
wine shows notes of baking spices, citrus and lightly buttered toast, with a bright, minerally
finish. 2016-18
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2015 O Fournier B Crux Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley 12%
Low in alcohol and correspondingly zesty and refreshing, this is a herbal, sappy Sauvignon
with notes of grapefruit, green herbs and celery and impressive varietal purity. El Cepillo
seems to be well suited to the grape. 2016-18
2015 Piedra Negra Vuela Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley 12.5%
Two separate picks are used to make this partially barrel-fermented Sauvignon from Thibault
Lepoutre to provide a greater range of aromas and flavours. Mangetout and grapefruit notes
are complemented by struck match reduction, tangy acidity and a touch of vanilla spice.
2016-19
2015 Revolver Chardonnay
Gualtallary 12.8%
Revolver is the personal project of Altos Las Hormigas’ Chilean winemaker, Leo Erazu.
Mostly concrete fermented it’s appley, savoury and complex with low sulphur and an equally
low pH. Pithy and bracing, with citrus and sea breeze notes. 2016-20
2014 Rutini Apartado Gran Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13.7%
The Apartado Chardonnay also contains 7% Semillon and 3% Pinot Gris, all aged in new
French oak. This is a rich, creamy, lees-influenced style, with stone fruit and citrus flavours
and balancing acidity from the Tupungato origin. 2016-18
2015 Rutini Sauvignon Blanc
Tupungato 12.6%
A stylish, low alcohol Sauvignon Blanc that shows the “sweaty” notes that you find in some
New Zealand interpretations of the grape. Tangy, grapefruity and stylish with notes of lemon
grass and a whisper of oak. 2016-18
2015 Trapiche Costa & Pampa Chardonnay
Chapadmalal 13%
This pioneering vineyard on the Atlantic coast got a change of name in 2015 (from Mar &
Pampa), but continues to show the same freshness and lightness of touch in its wines. This
is crisp and chiselled, with just a touch of oak adding a sheen to the sappy, citrus-dominated
fruit flavours. 2016-19
2014 Trapiche Medalla Chardonnay
Uco Valley 13.5%
Made with a combination of stainless steel and barrel fermentation, this modern style
Chardonnay comes from Los Arboles in the Uco Valley. Subtle oak, apple and pear notes,
focused acidity and a dusting of baking spices combine harmoniously on the palate here.
2016-20
2015 Tukma Altura 2670 Sauvignon Blanc
Jujuy 13.5%
Jujuy is the northern frontier of Argentinean viticulture, producing wines at 2,670 metres
in this case. It’s a very individual style of Sauvignon Blanc, showing flavours of green tea,
mangetout and paprika. Classy Sauvignon. 2016-17
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2015 Tukma Finca Las Nubes Torrontés
Cafayate 13.5%
José-Luis Mounier has a special touch with Torrontés and this pepper spicy, well balanced
example, made with a little acid adjustment for freshness, is a tasty example of Argentina’s
near native grape, with lovely perfume and focus. 2016-17
2014 Tukma Gran Torrontés
Salta 14%
An old vine Torrontés, made with grapes from Angastaco, this is barrel-fermented in a
combination of French and American oak. Focused and refined, with flavours of orange zest
and rose water and deftly integrated vanilla spice. 2016-18
2014 Vicentin Blanc de Malbec
Mendoza 14.3%
Sold as a white wine, but showing a pinkish tinge, this is made with Malbec from Agrelo and
Las Compuertas and is a subtle, floral, rose petal-scented wine that’s a rosé in all but name.
Elegant and mineral with just a nip of tannin. 2016-18
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2014 Abremundos Octava Alta Blanco
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2015 Amalaya Blanco
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Mendoza 14.2%
Abremundos is an exciting joint venture between Marcelo Pelleriti and musician Pedro
Aznar, made with purchased grapes. This is lightly oaked blend of Chardonnay with 40%
Torrontés, displaying attractive cream and orange zest notes supported by citrus fruit acidity.
2016-17
Salta 13%
People are apparently planting Riesling in Salta because of the success of this blend with
80% Torrontés. Picked early to retain acidity, it’s floral and crisp, unfurling flavours of lime,
lemon and grapefruit in the glass. Refreshingly dry. 2016-17
2015 Deumayen Trez Vivante Torrontés
Salta 14%
Situated firmly at the fresher, less oily end of the Torrontés spectrum, this is zesty, light and
fruity. It’s a modern interpretation of the grape, showing lime and citrus notes and just a
touch of smoky reduction. 2016-18
2015 Domingo Molina Torrontés
Cafayate 14%
There’s a touch of barrel-fermentation in this Torrontés from Rafa Domingo, giving it a little
more volume and weight. Pale in colour, this is a sappy, refreshing example of the grape
showing an appealing combination of fragrance and lime-like acidity. 2016-17
2015 Dominio del Plata Crios Torrontés
Argentina 13.8%
Susana Balbo’s ever reliable Torrontés is source from Cafayate and the Uco Valley and is a
lovely expression of the grape. Aromatic, grapey and fresh, with notes of pear and stone fruit
and a fresh, sappy finish. A really good introduction to Argentina’s near native white grape.
2016-18
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2015 El Esteco Don David Torrontés
Winemaker Alejandro Pepa uses 5% Sauvignon Blanc in this Torrontés, as well as some skin
contact. The result is a white that’s typical of the variety, without the oiliness that it can
sometimes show. Refreshing and tangy with good texture and weight. 2016-17
2015 Finca Agostino Sauvignon Blanc
Mendoza 13.1%
José Gómez’s Sauvignon Blanc comes from the warmer district of Maipú, but is a stylish,
refreshing, zesty expression of the variety, exhibiting flavours of grapefruit, lemongrass and
gooseberry and a hint of carbon dioxide. 2016-17
Mendoza 13.5%
Gala 3 combines Viognier with 40% barrel-fermented Chardonnay and 10% Riesling. It’s
a rich, comparatively forward style, with quite a bit of oak, notes of honey and apricot and
underlying acidity from the Riesling. Argentina needs more innovative white blends like this.
2016-18
2014 Mythic Vineyards Mythic Vineyard Chardonnay/Viognier
Mendoza 14%
This 60/40 blend of Chardonnay and Viognier also has a dash of Sauvignon Blanc in 2014.
The oak is a little marked this year, but this is still a well made blend showing notes of
grapefruit, peach and apricot and a hint of vanilla spice. 2016-18
2015 Norton Perdriel Colección Sauvignon Blanc
Perdriel 13.5%
Made with a planting of the 242 clone on high trellised parral vines, this reliable Sauvignon
Blanc is crisp and varietally pure, showing flavours of grapefruit, green herbs and lemon
zest. Tangy and refreshing. 2016-18
2015 Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far From The Tree
Pinot Gris
Mendoza 13%
Fermented with natural yeasts and sourced from Chacayes in the Uco Valley, this is more of
a Pinot Gris than Pinot Grigio style. Savoury and complex with pear and apple notes and a
musky, peach skin perfume. A really good food wine. 2016-18
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2015 Ruca Malen Chardonnay
Mendoza 13.7%
Now owned by Nieto Senetiner, Ruca Malen makes a very attractive, understated
Chardonnay, showing subtle oak, some texture from lees contact and flavours of pear, melon
and citrus fruit. Balanced, refreshing and very drinkable. 2016-17
2015 Saltallary Sauvignon Blanc
Argentina 12.5%
A joint venture between the Michelini and Dávalos Brothers, this combines Sauvignon Blanc
parcels from Gualtallary and Salta (hence the name). Green beans, grapefruit and a hint of
asparagus are underpinned by chalky acidity here. 2016-18
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2015 San Pedro de Yacochuya Torrontés
Cafayate 14%
The San Pedro de Yacochuya Torrontés comes from 70-year-old vines and shows the richness
and concentration you might expect from the winery, given the style of its reds. Tropical
fruit flavours of guava and pineapple are complemented by enough acidity to give the wine
balance. 2016-17
2015 Terrazas de los Andes Torrontés Reserva
Cafayate 13.8%
Made at the Piatelli winery in Cafayate for Terrazas, this is typical of the aromas you find
in Torrontés from the north of Argentina, but has none of the oiliness that sometimes
accompanies it. Lime and floral notes are complemented by refreshing acidity. 2016-17
2015 Vallisto Torrontés
Salta 14%
You’d expect a team of three oenologists, one of them Pancho Lavaque from Salta itself, to
produce a stylish, restrained Torrontés, and you’d be right. This is perfumed, focused and not
over-ripe with spice and lime blossom notes. 2016-17
2015 Zorzal Terroir Unico Sauvignon Blanc
Gualtallary 12%
The Michelinis are sometimes caricatured as early pickers, irrespective of fruit ripeness, but
this was harvested in five different stages. It’s a well made Sauvignon that combines crunchy,
grapefruity freshness with gooseberry and tropical fruit notes. 2016-17
2015 Zuccardi Serie A Torrontés
Salta 14.5%
One of the very few Zuccardi wines that doesn’t come from Mendoza, this is made by
Torrontés specialist José-Luis Mounier with grapes from Tolombón. Sappy, perfumed and
crisp, it’s at the brighter, more citrus-influenced end of the spectrum, showing good finesse.
2016-17
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Rosado
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2015 Chacra Mainqué Rosé
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Mendoza 13%
There aren’t many outstanding rosés in Argentina, but this is definitely one of them,
combining Malbec with 20% Pinot Noir in a pale, Côtes de Provence style blend. Perfumed,
understated and refreshing, with raspberry and red cherry notes and a dry, refreshing finish.
2016-17
Patagonia 13.5%
Pale and refined in colour, this looks and tastes like a Côtes de Provence style pink. Direct
pressed and stainless steel fermented, it’s an elegant style showing red cherry and rosehip
flavours and tangy acidity. 2016-17
2015 Dominio del Plata Rosé Blend
Mendoza 12%
Continuing the change of style that began in 2014, this is a pale, direct-pressed blend of
Malbec and Pinot Noir. Light and refreshing, it’s the kind of thing that wouldn’t look out
of place on the Côte d’Azur, with rosehip and red cherry fruit and tangy, palate-cleansing
acidity. 2016-17
2015 Plop! Rosado de Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley 11.5%
Manuel Michelini must be the youngest winemaker in Mendoza, but he comes from good
stock. This early picked rosé was fermented with natural yeasts and has attractive raspberry
and green pepper notes with redcurrant-like acidity. I love the label, too. 2016-17
Sparkling
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2006 Cruzat Gran Millésime
Mendoza 12.5%
Whoever imagined that Argentina could produce a sparkling wine as good as this blend of
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, aged on its lees for five years? Toasty, creamy and rich, with
notes of brioche and dried mushroom, it’s a stunning fizz from Pedro Resell. The country’s
best bubbly. 2016-20
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Bodega Vistalba Progenie Brut Nature
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NV Cruzat Cuvée Nature
Uco Valley 13.6%
Spending 36 months on its lees, Carlos Pulenta’s fizz is a sophisticated blend of Pinot Noir with
40% Chardonnay. The base of the wine is from 2011, but there’s some older material too on this
fine, creamy, oak-influenced fizz. Dry, subtle and showing fine, pin-head bubbles. 2016-20
Mendoza 12.5%
Almost bone dry and showing a lot of toasty development for a non-vintage blend, this Pinot
Noir/Chardonnay cuvée is a complex, beautifully judged fizz. Long and refreshing, it unfurls
flavours of dried mushroom and brioche supported by a cushion of fine bubbles. 2016-19
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NV O Fournier A Crux Cuvée
Uco Valley 11.5%
A new venture for O Fournier, this non-vintage blend of Chardonnay with 20% Pinot Noir,
made with San Carlos grapes picked at the end of January, is a complex, creamy, toasty
delight with nutty autolysis notes and a long, dry, refreshing finish. Let’s hope this is the first
of many releases. 2016-21
NV Bodega Vistalba Progenie II Extra Brut
Uco Valley 13.5%
Younger and slightly sweeter than the straight Progenie, this is made from a similar blend
of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. It gets nine months on lees and is less developed in style as a
result, with spicy, raspberry fruit and crunchy acidity balanced by 7 grams of dosage. 2016-19
NV Cruzat Clásico Extra Brut
Agrelo 12.5%
The Clásico style spends less time on lees (12 months) than most of its stable mates, but it’s
no less refined or attractive to drink. Smoky, creamy and toasty, it’s another polished cuvée of
Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Pedro Rosell, Argentina’s best sparkling winemaker.
2016-19
NV Cruzat Cuvée Extra Brut
Agrelo 12.5%
The Extra Brut bottling from Cruzat is still quite a dry style, with only 6 grams per litre of
dosage. Intense, creamy and focused, with pinhead bubbles, tangy acidity and notes of white
pepper, hazelnut and red berries. 2016-19
NV Cruzat Cuvée Rosé Extra Brut
Agrelo 12.5%
Showing the elegance, texture and lees ageing that’s a feature of the Cruzat fizzes, this is pale,
delicate and dry. Rose petal and raspberry flavours are complemented by notes of toast and
brioche underpinned by acidity. A classy sparkling wine. 2016-19
NV Lagarde Extra Brut Blanc de Noir
Uco Valley 12.7%
An excellent choice as an aperitif if you’re sitting down to dinner in the winery’s restaurant,
this is a pure Pinot Noir fizz from the Uco Valley showing red fruit flavours and toasty, leesderived autolysis with a complex dry finish. 2016-19
2014 Domaine Bousquet Brut Traditionnelle Rosé
Uco Valley 12.5% 91
An impressive blend of Pinot Noir with 25% Chardonnay, all of it from organic vineyards in
the Uco Valley. This is a dry style, showing rose petal and strawberry cup flavours, a hint of
toasty autolysis and refreshing acidity. 2016-19
Altos La Hormigas Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda Blanc de Noirs
Mendoza 11.5%
Served as a digestif at the winery, this is much more than a curiosity. Pale in colour, with no
dosage at all, it’s floral and refreshing with fine bubbles and a nip of tannin. Just the thing for
a hot summer afternoon. 2016-18
Bodega Vistalba Progenie III Extra Brut
Uco Valley 12.1%
Made with the Charmat method, this equal blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay has a
pinkish colour, frothy, easy-drinking bubbles, some less-derived cream and texture and
refreshing acidity. The dosage is 8 grams here, but seems lower. 2016-18
Page 122
©2016 Tim Atkin
90
90
90
90
2014 Bressia Brut Nature
Uco Valley 11.5%
It’s easy to overlook the quality of Walter Bressia’s sparkling wines, such is the quality of his
other wines. This equal blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay spends 12 months on lees and
has a touch of pink to its colour. It’s a dry style, with flavours of summer pudding, a hint of
toast and attractive evolution. 2016-19
2015 Bressia Sylvestra Pinot Noir Rosé
Uco Valley 11.6%
Launched in 2105, this Pinot Noir rosé is sourced entirely from the Uco Valley. Pink in
colour, with low dosage of 5 grams per litre, a hint of toasty autolysis and juicy, refreshing
raspberry and strawberry cup flavours. Very drinkable in a dry, youthful style. 2016-18
2014 Casa Bianchi Brut Traditional Method
Mendoza 12%
This blend of Chardonnay with 40% Pinot Noir sees nine months on lees and has fine
bubbles, some cream and toast and refreshing flavours of apple, brioche and citrus fruit. A
chalky freshness gives the wine added palate length. 2016-19
2012 Moor-Barrio Initium Brut Nature
Mendoza 12.7%
This dry, savoury blend of Pinot Noir with 40% Chardonnay from the Moor-Barrios’ boutique
operation in Guaymallén spent two years on lees and further time in bottle before release.
It’s complex, toasty and refined, with a bracing, minerally finish and pin-head bubbles.
2016-20
Sweet
91
2014 Bodega del Desierto Pampa Late Harvest Viognier
La Pampa 10%
This barrel-aged, late picked Viognier from the Pampa province is one of my favourite
Argentinean dessert wines. Subtle and graceful, it has 125 grams of residual sugar, flavours
of nectarine and grapefruit and a dusting of vanilla spice. Deliciously tangy and refreshing.
2016-20
Page 123
©2016 Tim Atkin
2km
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Complete
scores A-Z
13
A Pepa Blend
Cafayate
2012
Red
93
14.5
Abremundos Octava Alta
Mendoza
2012
Red
91
14.5
Abremundos Octava Alta Blanco
Mendoza
2014
White
90
14.2
Abremundos Octava Bassa Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14.5
Abremundos Octava Superior
Mendoza
2012
Red
92
14.5
Achával Ferrer Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14
Achával Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
97
14
Achával Ferrer Finca Bella Vista Malbec
Perdriel
2013
Red
96
14
Achával Ferrer Finca Mirador
Medrano
2013
Red
93
14.2
Achával Ferrer Quimera
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
14.5
Achával Ferrer Temporis Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
96
14
Aguayo Malbec
Cafayate
2013
Red
88
14.5
Alamos Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
88
13
Alamos Bonarda
Mendoza
2015
Red
88
13.5
Alamos Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
87
13.5
Alamos Viognier
Mendoza
2015
White
91
13.5
Alchimia de los Andes Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
13.8
Alchimia de los Andes Chardonnay Reserve
Mendoza
2012
White
88
13.3
Alchimia de los Andes Malbec Grand Reserve
Mendoza
2012
Red
88
15
Alchimia de los Andes Malbec Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
86
13.9
Alma Austral Barrel Series Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
87
14
Alma Austral Barrel Series Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14
Alma Austral Barrel Series Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
91
14
Alpamanta Estate Breva Sauvignon Blanc
Ugarteche
2015
White
93
14.1
Alpamanta Estate Cabernet Franc
Ugarteche
2014
Red
87
14.5
Alpamanta Estate Malbec
Ugarteche
2013
Red
88
14.1
Alpamanta Natal Petit Verdot
Ugarteche
2014
Red
88
14.5
Alta Vista Atemporal Blend
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14.5
Alta Vista Estate Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.5
Alta Vista Single Vineyard Temis Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
15
Alta Vista Terroir Selection Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
15
Altocedro Petit Verdot
La Consulta
2013
Red
89
14
Altocedro Pinot Noir
La Consulta
2014
Red
94
14
Altos La Hormigas Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda
Medrano
2014
Red
91
13.7
Altos La Hormigas Colonia Las Liebres Bonarda Blanc de Noirs
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
90
11.5
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
13
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Altamira
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
94
14
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Gualtallary Arena
Gualtallary
2014
Red
91
13.8
©2016 Tim Atkin
Page 124
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Appellation Gualtallary Piedras
Gualtallary
2014
Red
97
14.2
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Reserve
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
13.9
Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Terroir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Altos Terruños
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
92
15
Altupalka Malbec + Malbec
Salta
2013
Red
91
15.5
Altupalka Malbec Extremo
Salta
2013
Red
91
16.5
Altupalka Sauvignon Blanc Extremo
Salta
2015
White
91
13.6
Amalaya Blanco
Salta
2015
White
90
13
Amalaya Brut Nature
Salta
NV
Sparkling
89
12.5
Amalaya Finca San Isidro Corte Unico
Salta
2013
Red
94
14.5
Amalaya Gran Corte Barrel Selection
Cafayate
2014
Red
91
14.3
Amalaya Rosado de Corte
Salta
2015
Rosé
86
13.5
Amalaya Tinto de Corte
Cafayate
2015
Red
91
14
Andeluna 1300 Cabernet Sauvignon
Tupungato
2015
Red
87
14.1
Andeluna 1300 Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
86
13.6
Andeluna 1300 Malbec
Tupungato
2015
Red
85
14.2
Andeluna 1300 Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
86
12.8
Andeluna 1300 Torrontés
Tupungato
2015
White
88
12
Andeluna Altitud Cabernet Sauvignon
Tupungato
2014
Red
91
14.5
Andeluna Altitud Chardonnay
Tupungato
2015
White
92
13.8
Andeluna Altitud Cosecha Tardia
Uco Valley
2014
Sweet
88
13
Andeluna Altitud Malbec
Tupungato
2014
Red
91
14.2
Andeluna Malbec Rosé
Tupungato
2015
Rosé
86
12.5
Andeluna Pasionado Cabernet Franc
Tupungato
2013
Red
93
14.2
Andeluna Pasionado Cuatro Cepas
Tupungato
2013
Red
95
14.6
Andeluna Pasionado Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.4
Anko Flor de Cardón Malbec
Salta
2013
Red
91
13.9
Anko Malbec
Salta
2015
Red
89
14
Anko Tigerstone Malbec Estancia Los Cardones
Salta
2013
Red
93
14
Anko Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
84
13.5
Antonio Mas Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
83
12.4
Antonio Mas Historia Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2011
Red
84
15.2
Antonio Mas Historia Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
86
14.8
Antonio Mas Núcleus Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
83
14.7
Antonio Mas Núcleus Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
82
14.4
Antonio Mas Núcleus Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
85
14.5
Antonio Mas Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
84
14.5
Antonio Mas Single Vineyard Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
82
12.4
Antonio Mas Single Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
85
13.9
Antucura Blend Selection
Vista Flores
2012
Red
88
15.1
Antucura Cabernet Franc
Vista Flores
2014
Red
91
15
Antucura Grand Vin
Vista Flores
2010
Red
89
15.4
Argento Chardonnay Selección
Mendoza
2015
White
86
14
Argento Cabernet Franc Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
14
Argento Esquinas de Argento Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
83
14
Argento Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14
Argento Single Vineyard Malbec
La Consulta
2014
Red
91
14
Atamisque Assemblage
Uco Valley
2011
Red
94
15
Atamisque Catalpa Assemblage
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
15
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 125
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Atamisque Catalpa Chardonnay
Mendoza
2015
White
92
14.5
Atamisque Catalpa Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14.5
Atamisque Malbec
La Consulta
2013
Red
90
14
Atamisque Petit Verdot
Uco Valley
2012
Red
92
14.8
Atamisque Serbal Assemblage
Tupungato
2015
Red
91
14
Atamisque Serbal Cabernet Franc
Tupungato
2015
Red
93
14
Atamisque Serbal Malbec
Tupungato
2013
Red
87
14
Atamisque Serbal Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2015
Red
91
14
Atamisque Serbal Viognier
Tupungato
2015
White
85
14
Avarizza Blend Number 1
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
14.5
Avarizza Blend Number 2
Mendoza
2012
Red
89
14.5
Avarizza Reserva Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.4
Benegas Finca Libertad
Mendoza
2010
Red
84
14.7
Benegas Juan Benegas Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
86
14.5
Benegas La Encerrada Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2014
Red
88
14.4
Benvenuto de la Serna Malbec
Vista Flores
2013
Red
89
14.2
Benvenuto de la Serna Trisagio
Vistalba
2011
Red
87
14.5
Blanchard y Lurton
Uco Valley
2014
White
94
13.5
Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Bonarda
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
13.1
Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
13.9
Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Chardonnay
Mendoza
2014
White
93
13.9
Bodega Aleanna El Enemigo Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
95
13.9
Bodega Aleanna El Gran Enemigo
Gualtallary
2012
Red
94
13.9
Bodega Aleanna El Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Gualtallary
2012
Red
95
13.9
Bodega Aleanna El Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Agrelo
2012
Red
94
13.9
Bodega Budeguer 4000 Malbec Gran Reserva
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
14.8
Bodega Budeguer Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Mendoza
2012
Red
88
13.8
Bodega Budeguer Tucumen Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2012
Red
87
14.3
Bodega Cuarto Dominio Chento Single Lot Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
95
14
Bodega Cuarto Dominio Chento Single Lot Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
13.9
Bodega del Desierto 25 Cabernet Franc
La Pampa
2011
Red
89
14.8
Bodega del Desierto 25 Malbec
La Pampa
2013
Red
88
14.1
Bodega del Desierto 25 Sauvignon Blanc
La Pampa
2015
White
88
14.4
Bodega del Desierto Pampa Blend
La Pampa
2012
Red
91
14.4
Bodega del Desierto Pampa Cabernet Franc
La Pampa
2013
Red
91
14.8
Bodega del Desierto Pampa Late Harvest Viognier
La Pampa
2014
Sweet
91
10
Bodega del Desierto Pampa Malbec
La Pampa
2013
Red
92
14.9
Bodega del Río Elorza Malbec Reserva
Río Negro
2013
Red
93
14
Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Cabernet Franc Reserva
Río Negro
2014
Red
90
14
Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Chardonnay
Río Negro
2015
White
91
13.7
Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Malbec
Río Negro
2015
Red
91
14
Bodega del Río Elorza Verum Pinot Noir
Río Negro
2015
Red
90
13.8
Bodega Elvira Calle Alberti 154 Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.1
Bodega Elvira Calle Alberti 154 Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14.1
Bodega Elvira Calle Ca' de Calle
Mendoza
2012
Red
91
14.5
Bodega Gieco Georgio Gieco Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
85
14.5
Bodega Gieco Georgio Gieco Organic Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
84
15
Bodega Gieco Georgio Gieco Rosé de Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
84
15
Bodega Iaccarini Bonarda Roble
San Rafael
2014
Red
88
13
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 126
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Bodega Iaccarini Cavas Don Nicasio Bonarda
San Rafael
2013
Red
89
14.2
Bodega Iaccarini Cavas Don Nicasio Malbec
San Rafael
2013
Red
90
14.6
Bodega Iaccarini Via Blanca Bonarda
San Rafael
2015
Red
87
13
Bodega Malma Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva de Familia
Neuquén
2011
Red
89
14.5
Bodega Malma Finca La Papay Pinot Noir
Neuquén
2014
Red
89
13.4
Bodega Malma Malbec Reserva de Familia
Neuquén
2013
Red
90
14.4
Bodega Tacuil 33 de Dávalos
Molinos
2015
Red
94
15.5
Bodega Tacuil Cabernet Sauvignon
Molinos
2015
Red
93
15.7
Bodega Tacuil Doña Ascensión
Molinos
2014
Red
93
15.5
Bodega Tacuil RD Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon
Molinos
2015
Red
93
15
Bodega Tacuil RD Sauvignon Blanc
Molinos
2015
White
92
13.6
Bodega Tacuil RD Torrontés
Molinos
2015
White
89
14
Bodega Tacuil Viñas de Dávalos
Molinos
2015
Red
96
15.7
Bodega Teho Teho Malbec Tomal Vineyard
La Consulta
2013
Red
93
13.9
Bodega Teho Zaha Cabernet Franc Toko Vineyard
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
88
13.9
Bodega Teho Zaha El Corte Toko Vineyard
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Bodega Teho Zaha Malbec Toko Vineyard
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
92
13.9
Bodega Traslapiedra Blend
Paraje Altamira
2015
Red
88
14
Bodega Vasija Secreta Rosé Gato Flora
Cafayate
2015
Rosé
83
13
Bodega Vistalba Corte A
Vistalba
2013
Red
94
15
Bodega Vistalba Corte B
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
93
14.5
Bodega Vistalba Corte C
Vistalba
2014
Red
91
15.1
Bodega Vistalba Progenie Brut Nature
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
93
13.6
Bodega Vistalba Progenie II Extra Brut
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
92
13.5
Bodega Vistalba Progenie III Extra Brut
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
90
12.1
Bodega Vistalba Tomero Gran Reserva
Uco Valley
2012
Red
92
15
Bodega Vistalba Tomero Malbec Reserva
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
15
Bodega Vistalba Tomero Petit Verdot Reserva
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
15
Bressia Brut Nature
Uco Valley
2014
Sparkling
90
11.5
Bressia Conjuro
Mendoza
2011
Red
93
15.3
Bressia Lágrima Canela
Uco Valley
2013
White
94
14
Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.5
Bressia Monteagrelo Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
15
Bressia Monteagrelo Malbec
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Bressia Monteagrelo Syrah
Uco Valley
2013
Red
90
14.5
Bressia Pinot Noir Piel Negra
Uco Valley
2013
Red
91
13
Bressia Pinot Noir Rosé
Uco Valley
2015
Rosé
89
12
Bressia Profundo
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
92
15
Bressia Sylvestra Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
88
14.5
Bressia Sylvestra Pinot Noir Rosé
Uco Valley
2015
Sparkling
90
11.6
Bressia Sylvestra Sauvignon Blanc
Mendoza
2015
White
87
12.5
Bressia Ultima Hoja
Mendoza
2010
Red
94
14.5
Buscado Vivo o Muerte El Indio
El Cepillo
2013
Red
93
14
Buscado Vivo o Muerte El Límite
Las Pareditas
2013
Red
93
14
Buscado Vivo o Muerte El Manzano
Chacayes
2013
Red
91
14
Buscado Vivo o Muerte La Verdad
Gualtallary
2013
Red
94
14
Buscado Vivo o Muerte San Jorge
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Cadus Wines Blend de Alturas Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
15
Cadus Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Appellation
Agrelo
2014
Red
89
13.9
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 127
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Cadus Wines Chardonnay Appellation
Uco Valley
2014
White
89
13.5
Cadus Wines Malbec Appellation
Gualtallary
2013
Red
89
14
Cadus Wines Single Vineyard Finca Las Torcazas Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
87
14
Cadus Wines Single Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
91
15
Cara Sur Bonarda
Calingasta
2015
Red
93
13.5
Cara Sur Criolla
Calingasta
2015
Red
89
13.5
Cara Sur Moscatel Tinto
Calingasta
2015
Red
88
13.9
Carinae Cuvée Brigitte
Mendoza
2013
Red
86
15
Carinae Harmonie Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2012
Red
88
14.5
Carinae Hommage Malbec
Mendoza
2010
Red
87
14.5
Carinae Malbec Rosado
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
86
13
Carinae Passito de los Andes
Mendoza
2012
Fortified
87
15.5
Caro
Mendoza
2013
Red
95
14.5
Caro Amancaya
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14.5
Caro Aruma
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.5
Casa Bianchi Brut Traditional Method
Mendoza
2014
Sparkling
90
12
Casa Bianchi Enzo Bianchi
San Rafael
2012
Red
94
14.5
Casa Bianchi Famiglia Bianchi Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.3
Casa Bianchi Particular Malbec
San Rafael
2013
Red
93
13.9
Casa de Uco Malbec
Vista Flores
2013
Red
94
14.3
Casa de Uco Malbec
Vista Flores
2014
Red
94
14.3
Casa de Uco Salvaje Malbec
Vista Flores
2014
Red
93
14.3
Casa de Uco Salvaje Malbec
Vista Flores
2013
Red
92
14.3
Casarena 505 Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
85
13.9
Casarena 505 Chardonnay
Luján de Cuyo
2015
White
85
13
Casarena 505 Esencia
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
89
13.9
Casarena 505 Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
87
13.9
Casarena DNA Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
94
14.7
Casarena DNA Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14.7
Casarena Jamilla's Vineyard Malbec
Perdriel
2013
Red
93
14.5
Casarena Jamilla's Vineyard Syrah
Perdriel
2013
Red
92
14.5
Casarena Lauren's Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Agrelo
2013
Red
94
14.5
Casarena Lauren's Vineyard Malbec
Agrelo
2013
Red
94
14.5
Casarena Lauren's Vineyard Petit Verdot
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.9
Casarena Malbec Roble
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14
Casarena Reservado Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.5
Casarena Reservado Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
89
14.5
Casarena Winemaker's Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
88
14.3
Casarena Winemaker's Selection Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
90
14.5
Catena Alta Historic Rows Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
14
Catena Alta Historic Rows Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
91
14
Catena Alta Historic Rows Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14
Catena Appellation Cabernet Franc
San Carlos
2012
Red
93
13.5
Catena Appellation Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo
2014
Red
95
13.5
Catena Appellation Chardonnay
Tupungato
2015
White
91
13.5
Catena Appellation Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
93
13.5
La Consulta
2014
Red
93
13.5
Vista Flores
2014
Red
92
13.5
Lunlunta
2014
Red
92
13.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 128
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Catena Fortuna Terrae Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
95
14.1
Catena Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
96
14.1
Catena Riverstone Malbec Adrianna Vineyard
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
14.1
Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Bones Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2013
White
96
13
Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard White Stones Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2013
White
94
13
Catena Zapata Argentino Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
92
14.3
Catena Zapata Nicolás
Mendoza
2011
Red
96
14
Cepas Elegidas Brennan Firth
Mendoza
2010
Red
83
15
Cepas Elegidas Contacto Malbec
Mendoza
2010
Red
89
14.5
Cepas Elegidas Suono
Mendoza
2011
Red
88
15.8
Cepas Elegidas Torrontés
Mendoza
2014
White
80
13.4
Chacra Amor Seco Merlot
Patagonia
2014
Red
89
14
Chacra Barda Pinot Noir
Patagonia
2015
Red
93
13
Chacra Cincuenta y Cinco Pinot Noir
Río Negro
2015
Red
94
13.5
Chacra Mainqué Merlot
Río Negro
2013
Red
92
14
Chacra Mainqué Rosé
Patagonia
2015
Rosé
90
13.5
Chacra Pinot Treinta y Dos Pinot Noir
Río Negro
2013
Red
95
13.2
Chacra Sin Azufre Pinot Noir
Río Negro
2015
Red
95
13
Chakana Ayni Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
95
14.5
Chakana Estate Selection Chardonnay
Paraje Altamira
2014
White
92
13
Chakana Estate Selection Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.5
Chakana Estate Selection Red Blend
Uco Valley
2014
Red
94
14.5
Chakana Maipe Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
86
13.5
Chakana Maipe Malbec Rosé
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
88
13
Chakana Maipe Sparkling Brut
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
84
12.5
Chakana Maipe Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
87
13.5
Chakana Nuna Bonarda
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14
Chakana Nuna Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.5
Chakana Nuna Malbec
Agrelo
2015
Red
91
14
Chakana Nuna Syrah
Mendoza
2015
Red
91
14.5
Chakana Nuna White Blend
Mendoza
2015
White
91
14
Chaman Cabernet Franc
Ugarteche
2014
Red
87
14
Chaman El Vuelo del Chaman Viña Alberico
Gualtallary
2013
Red
93
14
Chaman Petit Verdot
La Consulta
2014
Red
87
13.3
Chaman Red Blend
La Consulta
2013
Red
92
13.9
Chaman Viña Delfina
La Consulta
2013
Red
92
13.9
Chandon Brut Nature
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
89
12.6
Chandon Brut Nature Rosé
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
89
12.6
Cheval des Andes
Mendoza
2013
Red
96
14.8
Cheval des Andes
Mendoza
2012
Red
95
15
Circulo Vero Malbec
Cafayate
2015
Red
89
14.5
Clos de Chacras Blend
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.1
Clos de Chacras Ereditá Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14
Clos de Chacras IDA C Chardonnay
Mendoza
2013
White
89
14
Clos de los Siete
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Collovati Malbec
La Rioja
2012
Red
86
14
Colomé Altura Máxima Lote Especial Pinot Noir
Salta
2015
Red
94
14
Colomé Altura Máxima Lote Especial Sauvignon Blanc
Salta
2015
White
94
13.5
Colomé Altura Máxima Malbec
Salta
2013
Red
98
14.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 129
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Colomé Auténtico Malbec
Salta
2014
Red
96
14.5
Colomé Estate Malbec
Salta
2013
Red
93
14.5
Colomé Lote Especial Malbec El Arenal
Salta
2013
Red
94
14.5
Colomé Lote Especial Malbec Molinos
Salta
2013
Red
94
14.5
Colomé Lote Especial Malbec, La Brava
Cafayate
2013
Red
92
14.5
Colomé Reserva Malbec
Salta
2011
Red
92
15.9
Colomé Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
92
13.5
Coquena Cabernet Sauvignon
Calchaqui Valley
2015
Red
89
14.1
Coquena Malbec
Calchaqui Valley
2015
Red
90
14.4
Coquena Malbec Rosado
Calchaqui Valley
2015
Rosé
87
13.9
Coquena Tannat
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
90
14.4
Coquena Torrontés
Calchaqui Valley
2015
White
86
13.7
Corazón del Sol Cab/Cab
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.5
Corazón del Sol Luminoso
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14.7
Corazón del Sol Malbec
Uco Valley
2015
Red
89
14.7
Corazón del Sol Malbec Gran Reserva
Uco Valley
2012
Red
93
15
Corazón del Sol Soleado
Uco Valley
2012
Red
92
14.8
Corazón del Sol Syrah
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.2
Cruzat Clásico Extra Brut
Agrelo
NV
Sparkling
92
12.5
Cruzat Cuvée Extra Brut
Agrelo
NV
Sparkling
92
12.5
Cruzat Cuvée Nature
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
93
12.5
Cruzat Cuvée Rosé Extra Brut
Agrelo
NV
Sparkling
92
12.5
Cruzat Gran Millésime
Mendoza
2006
Sparkling
95
12.5
Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Blend
Uco Valley
2012
Red
89
14.5
Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14.5
Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
91
15
Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Malbec Rosado
Uco Valley
2015
Rosé
89
12
Cuvelier Los Andes Colección Merlot
Uco Valley
2012
Red
90
14
Cuvelier Los Andes El Cuvelier de los Andes
Uco Valley
2012
Red
90
16.3
Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
90
16.5
Cuvelier Los Andes Grand Vin
Uco Valley
2010
Red
91
15.5
Dante Robino Bonarda
Santa Rosa
2015
Red
87
13.5
Dante Robino Gran Dante Bonarda
Santa Rosa
2013
Red
90
14.2
Dante Robino Gran Dante Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
15
Dante Robino Malbec Reserva
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
89
14.5
De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Vistalba
2014
Red
92
14.5
De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Cabernet Sauvignon
Vistalba
2013
Red
95
15.2
De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Corte
Vistalba
2013
Red
95
14.8
De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Gran Malbec
Vistalba
2013
Red
95
14.8
De Angeles Viña 1924 Single Vineyard Malbec
Vistalba
2013
Red
93
14.5
Deumayen Trez Vivante Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
90
14
Deumayen Trez Malbec Reserva
Vista Flores
2012
Red
91
14.3
Deumayen Trez Vivante Malbec
Vista Flores
2014
Red
89
14.5
DiamAndes de Uco Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2014
Red
91
14.5
DiamAndes de Uco Gran Reserva
Uco Valley
2010
Red
87
14.5
DiamAndes de Uco Icono
Uco Valley
2012
Red
93
14.6
DiamAndes de Uco Malbec
Uco Valley
2015
Red
92
14.5
Diamandes de Uco Perlita Malbec/Syrah
Uco Valley
2015
Red
89
14.2
DiamAndes de Uco Viognier
Uco Valley
2015
White
92
14.4
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 130
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Domaine Bousquet Ameri
Tupungato
2012
Red
89
15
Domaine Bousquet Brut Traditionelle Rosé
Uco Valley
2014
Sparkling
91
12.5
Domaine Bousquet Gaia
Tupungato
2014
Red
91
14.5
Domaine Bousquet Malbec Grande Reserve
Tupungato
2014
Red
92
15
Domingo Molina Hermanos Malbec/Tannat
Cafayate
2014
Red
82
14
Domingo Molina Hermanos Tannat
Cafayate
2014
Red
83
14
Domingo Molina Hermanos Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
86
14
Domingo Molina Malbec
Cafayate
2013
Red
87
14.5
Domingo Molina Rupestre
Salta
2011
Red
87
14.5
Domingo Molina Tannat
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
87
14.5
Domingo Molina Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
90
14
Dominio del Plata Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
91
14.5
Dominio del Plata Benmarco Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Dominio del Plata Benmarco Expresivo
Gualtallary
2014
Red
94
14.5
Dominio del Plata Benmarco Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14
Dominio del Plata Crios Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
90
13.9
Dominio del Plata Crios Torrontés
Argentina
2015
White
90
13.8
Dominio del Plata Nosotros Malbec
Vista Flores
2012
Red
91
14.5
Dominio del Plata Rosé Blend
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
90
12
Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Barrel-Fermented Torrontés
Uco Valley
2015
White
93
14
Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Brioso
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14.5
Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14
Dominio del Plata Susana Balbo Signature Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14
Dominio del Plata White Blend
Uco Valley
2015
White
94
12.5
Domnio del Plata Susana Balbo Limited Edition Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
94
14.5
Doña Paula 1100
San Carlos
2013
Red
92
14.1
Doña Paula 1350
Gualtallary
2014
Red
93
14
Doña Paula Alluvia Parcel Malbec Bush Vines
Gualtallary
2012
Red
96
14.5
Doña Paula El Alto Parcel Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
93
14.5
Doña Paula Estate Black Edition Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
14.1
Doña Paula Estate Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
92
14
Doña Paula Estate Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Doña Paula Estate Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
88
14.5
Doña Paula Estate Riesling
Gualtallary
2015
White
91
13.5
Doña Paula Estate Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
92
13
Doña Paula Sauvage Blanc Brut
Argentina
NA
Sparkling
87
12.5
Doña Paula Selección de Bodega Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
95
14.5
Dos Puentes Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
14
Dos Puentes Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
14
Dos Puentes Malbec Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
14
Durigutti Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14
Durigutti Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14
Durigutti Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
15.1
Durigutti Reserva Blend
Mendoza
2012
Red
86
14.5
DVT Winery HW Cellar Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2007
Red
82
14
DVT Winery HW Winemaker Selection
Mendoza
2007
Red
87
14
Eduardo Vidal El Espía Gran Final
Uco Valley
2012
Red
85
15.3
Eduardo Vidal Nube Negra
Uco Valley
2012
Red
87
15.3
El Esteco Altimus
Cafayate
2012
Red
92
15
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 131
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
El Esteco Amaru Torrontés Rosé
Calchaqui Valley
2015
Rosé
84
12.5
El Esteco Cabernet Sauvignon
Calchaqui Valley
2013
Red
91
14.5
El Esteco Chañar Punco Malbec
Catamarca
2012
Red
93
15.5
El Esteco Ciclos Icono
Calchaqui Valley
2013
Red
91
14.5
El Esteco Ciclos Torrontés
Calchaqui Valley
2015
White
91
13.7
El Esteco Don David Cabernet Sauvignon
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
88
14
El Esteco Don David Malbec Reserve
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
87
14
El Esteco Don David Torrontés
Calchaqui Valley
2015
White
90
13.7
El Esteco Fincas Notables Cabernet Franc
Calchaqui Valley
2013
Red
93
14.5
El Esteco Fincas Notables Cabernet Sauvignon
Cafayate
2012
Red
91
14.5
El Esteco Fincas Notables Malbec
Cafayate
2013
Red
91
14.5
El Esteco Fincas Notables Tannat
Cafayate
2013
Red
91
14.5
El Esteco Malbec
Calchaqui Valley
2013
Red
89
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Absoluto Malbec
Cafayate
2015
Red
90
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Absoluto Tannat
Cafayate
2015
Red
91
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Corte Innovación
Cafayate
2015
Red
92
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Corte Inspiración
Cafayate
2015
Red
89
14.6
El Porvenir de Cafayate Amauta Corte Reflexión
Cafayate
2015
Red
88
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate El Porvenir Icono
Cafayate
2013
Red
93
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Finca Río Seco Cafayate
2014
Red
91
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Chardonnay
2015
White
91
13.7
Cafayate
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Malbec Finca Río Seco
Cafayate
2014
Red
93
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Rosado
Cafayate
2015
Rosé
87
13.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Syrah
Cafayate
2014
Red
89
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Tannat
Cafayate
2015
Red
94
14.5
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
91
12.8
El Porvenir de Cafayate Laborum Single Vineyard Torrontés Oak-Fermented
Cafayate
2015
White
92
13
El Relator Gran Premio
La Consulta
2013
Red
92
13.5
El Relator Sauvignon Blanc
Agrelo
2015
White
87
12.5
El Relator Tempranillo
La Consulta
2014
Red
89
14
Entonado Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
94
14.5
Entre Vero Blue Moustache
Mendoza
2012
Red
89
14
Entre Vero Extra Brut
Agrelo
NV
Sparkling
88
13
Entre Vero Folie Rosé
Agrelo
NV
Sparkling
87
13
Entre Vero Folie Rosé
Agrelo
2015
Rosé
86
13.5
Entre Vero Green Moustache
Lunlunta
2013
Red
90
14
Escorihuela Gascón 1884 Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
92
14
Escorihuela Gascón 1884 Malbec Biodinámico
Mendoza
2015
Red
94
14
Escorihuela Gascón 1884 Viognier
Mendoza
2015
White
89
13.5
Escorihuela Gascón Candela High Altitude Malbec/Syrah
Mendoza
2015
Red
90
13.5
Escorihuela Gascón Don Miguel Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.5
Escorihuela Gascón Pequeñas Producciones Chardonnay 1884
Mendoza
2014
White
92
13.9
Etchart Arnaldo B
Cafayate
2013
Red
90
14.5
Etchart Gran Linaje Malbec
Cafayate
2014
Red
88
14.5
Etchart Gran Linaje Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
88
13.5
Etchart Malbec Reserve
Cafayate
2014
Red
89
14.5
Fabre Montmayou Cabernet Franc Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
94
14.5
Fabre Montmayou Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14.5
Fabre Montmayou Gran Reserva Malbec
Vistalba
2013
Red
94
14.4
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 132
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Fabre Montmayou Grand Vin
Mendoza
2012
Red
95
14.5
Fabre Montmayou HJ Fabre Barrel Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
Patagonia
2014
Red
92
14.5
Fabre Montmayou HJ Fabre Chardonnay/Torrontés
Mendoza
2015
White
86
13.5
Fabre Montmayou HJ Fabre Reserva Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
88
14.5
Fabre Montmayou Malbec Reserva
Vistalba
2014
Red
94
14.5
Familia Cassone Obra Prima Colección Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
87
14.5
Familia Cassone Obra Prima Malbec Reserva
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
91
14
Familia Cassone Obra Prima Maximus
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
90
14
Familia Cassone Obra Prima Reserva Blend
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
87
14
Familia Schroeder Blend
Patagonia
2011
Red
91
14.5
Familia Schroeder Pinot Noir Clon R4
Patagonia
2015
Red
91
14.1
Familia Schroeder Saurus Barrel Fermented Malbec
Patagonia
2014
Red
91
14.5
Familia Schroeder Saurus Select Pinot Noir
Patagonia
2014
Red
90
14.5
Filus Bodega y Viñedos Filus Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
14.5
Filus Bodega y Viñedos Filus Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
15
Filus Bodega y Viñedos MCC Filus
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14.5
Filus Bodega y Viñedos Medrano Estate Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
88
13.8
Fin del Mundo FIN Cabernet Franc
Neuquén
2012
Red
91
14.5
Fin del Mundo Gran Reserva
Neuquén
2013
Red
91
14.5
Fin del Mundo Pinot Noir Reserva
Neuquén
2013
Red
86
14.5
Fin del Mundo Special Blend
Neuquén
2011
Red
92
14.5
Finca Agostino Agostino Familia
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14
Finca Agostino Chardonnay/Viognier
Mendoza
2014
White
87
13.5
Finca Agostino Sauvignon Blanc
Mendoza
2015
White
90
13.1
Finca Ambrosía Precioso Malbec
Gualtallary
2012
Red
93
15.5
Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Petit Verdot
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Finca Decero Amano
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo
2013
Red
91
14.3
Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Malbec
Agrelo
2014
Red
92
14.5
Finca Decero Remolinos Vineyard Syrah
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Finca del Enlace Tracia Alados Blend
San Juan
2012
Red
83
13.8
Finca del Enlace Tracia Honores Malbec
San Juan
2013
Red
84
13.5
Finca El Origen Estate Blend
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.6
Finca El Origen Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
89
14.6
Finca El Origen Gran Reserva Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
90
14.6
Finca El Origen Phi Single Vineyard
Vista Flores
2011
Red
91
14.9
Finca Flichman Dedicado
Tupungato
2013
Red
95
14.5
Finca La Anita Corte G
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.5
Finca La Anita Gran Cosecha Malbec
Agrelo
2014
Red
88
14.8
Finca La Anita Petit Verdot
Mendoza
2014
Red
88
14.8
Finca La Anita Varúa Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
15.7
Finca La Celia Elite Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
91
14.7
Finca La Celia Heritage
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
89
14.8
Finca La Celia Pioneer Cabernet Franc Reserva
La Consulta
2014
Red
87
14.5
Finca La Celia Pioneer Malbec
La Consulta
2014
Red
85
14.5
Finca La Chamiza Martín Alsina Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
14.5
Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Malbec
Tupungato
2013
Red
94
14.5
Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Syrah
Tupungato
2013
Red
93
13.8
Finca La Escarcha Entrelineas Viognier
Tupungato
2014
White
91
13.8
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 133
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Finca La Igriega Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
88
14.5
Finca Las Moras Barrel Select Malbec
Pedernal
2015
Red
90
14
Finca Las Moras Finca Pedernal Malbec
Pedernal
2010
Red
87
14.7
Finca Las Moras Gran Syrah
San Juan
2013
Red
94
15
Finca Las Moras Mora Negra
San Juan
2012
Red
89
14.5
Finca Las Moras Paz Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc
San Juan
2014
Red
90
14.5
Finca Las Moras Paz Malbec
Pedernal
2014
Red
91
14.4
Finca Las Moras Pinot Grigio
San Juan
2015
White
84
13
Finca Quara Estate Malbec
Cafayate
2015
Red
89
13.5
Finca Quara Single Vineyard Tannat
Cafayate
2011
Red
87
14
Finca Quara Single Vineyard Viña Cabra Corral Malbec
Cafayate
2013
Red
92
14
Finca Quara Special Selection Malbec
Cafayate
2014
Red
91
14
Finca Quara Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
91
13.5
Finca Sophenia Synthesis Malbec
Tupungato
2013
Red
92
15
Finca Sophenia Synthesis The Blend
Tupungato
2012
Red
93
15
Finca Suarez Brut Nature
Paraje Altamira
2014
Sparkling
88
12.5
Finca Suarez Chardonnay
Paraje Altamira
2014
White
88
13.1
Finca Suarez Gran Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
91
14.5
Finca Suarez Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
90
14.3
Fincas Don Martino Malbec Gran Reserva
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.9
Fincas Don Martino Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14.5
Flechas de los Andes Aguaribay Malbec Gran Reserva
Uco Valley
2013
Red
87
14.5
Flechas de los Andes Gran Corte
Uco Valley
2011
Red
85
14.5
Flechas de los Andes Gran Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
85
14.5
Flechas de los Andes Punta de Flechas
Uco Valley
2014
Red
86
14.5
Fuego Blanco Cabernet Franc/Malbec
Pedernal
2012
Red
93
13.8
Fuego Blanco Malbec/Syrah
Pedernal
2013
Red
93
14.2
Gauchezco Chardonnay
Los Arboles
2015
White
87
14
Gauchezco Oro Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
87
14.2
Gauchezco Petit Verdot Reserve
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
14
Gen de Alma Crua Chan Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
92
13.5
Gen de Alma Ji Ji Ji Finca Villa Seca Chenin Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
92
10.5
Gen de Alma Ji Ji Ji Malbec C02 Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2015
Red
91
12.1
Gen de Alma Otra Piel
Gualtallary
2014
Red
92
14
Gimenez Rilli Cabernet Franc
Vista Flores
2013
Red
87
14.2
Gimenez Rilli Don Francisco San Martín
Vista Flores
2015
Red
88
14.2
Gimenez Rilli Gran Familia Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2011
Red
89
14
Gimenez Rilli Gran Familia Syrah
Vista Flores
2011
Red
89
14.5
Gimenez Rilli Joyas de Familia
Vista Flores
2012
Red
92
14
González y González
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
15
Graffigna Centenario Malbec Reserve
San Juan
2014
Red
86
14
Graffigna Centenario Pinot Grigio Reserve
San Juan
2015
White
83
13.5
Graffigna Malbec Grand Reserve
San Juan
2013
Red
89
14.5
Graffigna Santiago Graffigna Limited Release
San Juan
2014
Red
90
14.5
Hacienda del Plata Arriero Reserve Blend
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
90
14.2
Hacienda del Plata Mayoral Grand Reserve Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
90
14.5
Hacienda del Plata Zagal Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
89
14
Huentala Wines Edition Malbec
Gualtallary
2013
Red
93
15
Humberto Canale Cabernet Franc Estate
Río Negro
2015
Red
87
13
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 134
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Humberto Canale Merlot Gran Reserva
Río Negro
2012
Red
90
14
Humberto Canale Old Vineyard Pinot Noir
Río Negro
2012
Red
90
14
Humberto Canale Semillon Finca Milagros
Río Negro
2015
White
92
12.7
José-Luis Mounier Laguna Brava Tannat Selected Reserve
Cafayate
2012
Red
94
14
José-Luis Mounier Laguna Brava Torrontés Selected Reserve
Cafayate
2010
White
93
14
José-Luis Mounier Malbec
Cafayate
2013
Red
93
13.5
José-Luis Mounier Mercedes
Cafayate
2014
Red
93
13.8
José-Luis Mounier Reserva
Cafayate
2011
Red
89
14.5
José-Luis Mounier Torrontés
Cafayate
2014
White
92
13.5
Kaiken Mai Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
92
15
Kaiken Obertura Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Kaiken Ultra Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
14.5
Kaiken Ultra Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14.5
Krontiras Doña Silvina de Verano
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14.3
Krontiras Doña Silvina Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
88
14.3
Krontiras Doña Silvina Malbec/Aglianico
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14
Krontiras Doña Silvina Single Vineyard Petit Verdot Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
83
14
La Chamiza Polo Profesional Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
88
13.5
La Giostra del Vino Bacán Malbec Reserva
Agrelo
2010
Red
89
14.5
La Giostra del Vino Bacán Sauvignon Blanc Reserva
Vista Flores
2014
White
94
13.7
La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Pinot Noir
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14
La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Sauvignon Blanc
Mendoza
2014
White
95
13.5
La Giostra del Vino Saltimbanco Tempranillo
Uco Valley
2014
Red
90
13.5
La Mascota Cabernet Franc
Cruz de Piedra
2014
Red
93
14
La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
Cruz de Piedra
2014
Red
93
14
La Mascota Gran Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
95
14.5
La Mascota Gran Mascota Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
15
La Mascota Malbec
Cruz de Piedra
2014
Red
91
14
La Mascota Opi Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14
La Mascota Unánime
Uco Valley
2012
Red
93
14.5
La Tierra Nace Gran Marantal
Vistalba
2012
Red
90
14
La Tierra Nace HW Cellar Selection Malbec
Mendoza
2009
Red
89
14
Lagarde Altas Cumbres Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
13.8
Lagarde Altas Cumbres Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
13.5
Lagarde Altas Cumbres Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
88
14.8
Lagarde Altas Cumbres Viognier
Mendoza
2015
White
89
12.6
Lagarde Extra Brut
Mendoza
2012
Sparkling
87
13
Lagarde Extra Brut Blanc de Noir
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
92
12.7
Lagarde Guarda Cabernet Franc
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
14
Lagarde Guarda Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
88
13.5
Lagarde Guarda Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
90
14.2
Lagarde Henry Gran Guarda
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
91
14.5
Lagarde Hermanas Chardonnay
Gualtallary
2014
White
88
13
Lagarde Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
13.8
Lagarde Primeras Viñas Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
93
14
Lagarde Primeras Viñas Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
93
14.1
Lagarde Semillon
Mendoza
2015
White
91
11.9
Lamadrid Begani Master
Luján de Cuyo
2010
Red
87
14.9
Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc Reserva
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
89
14
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 135
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Lamadrid Single Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
90
14
Lamadrid Single Vineyard Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
86
14.7
Lamadrid Single Vineyard Reserva Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
14
Leo Borsi Clos Ultralocal Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot
Chacayes
2013
Red
88
15.6
Leo Borsi Clos Ultralocal Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
93
15.5
Vista Flores
2014
Red
92
15
San Rafael
2014
Red
89
15.5
Los Toneles Gran Tonel 137 Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14
Los Toneles Tonel 22 Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.2
Los Toneles Tonel 46 Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.1
Los Toneles Tonel 78 Barrel Select
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.3
Luca Beso de Dante
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Luca G Lot Chardonnay
Gualtallary
2014
White
93
14
Luca G Lot Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2014
Red
93
14
Luca Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
94
14
Luca Nico by Luca High G Lot Malbec
Gualtallary
2013
Red
95
14
Luca Nico by Luca High G Lot Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2013
Red
94
14
Luca Nico by Luca Viñedos Rosas Malbec
La Consulta
2012
Red
92
14
Luca Syrah Laborde Double Select
La Consulta
2014
Red
91
14
Lui Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
87
14
Luigi Bosca A rosé is a rosé is a rosé
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
89
12
Luigi Bosca De Sangre
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.5
Luigi Bosca Finca Los Nobles Cabernet/Bouchet
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14
Luigi Bosca Finca Los Nobles Malbec/Petit Verdot
Las Compuertas
2012
Red
89
14.5
Luigi Bosca Gala 1
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14.5
Luigi Bosca Gala 3
Mendoza
2014
White
90
13.5
Luigi Bosca Gala 4
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14
Luigi Bosca Riesling
Las Compuertas
2015
White
92
13
Malma Universo Blend
Neuquén
2011
Red
89
14.5
Manos Negras Atrevida Blend
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
91
13.9
Manos Negras Pinot Noir
Neuquén
2015
Red
90
14
Manos Negras Quimay
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
93
14
Manos Negras Red Soil Select Pinot Noir
Neuquén
2014
Red
92
13.9
Manos Negras Stone Soil Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14
Marcelo Miras Pinot Noir
Alto Valle del Río Negro 2015
Rd
91
13.5
Marcelo Miras Salvaje Pinot Noir
Red
90
9.5
Marcelo Miras Semillon
White
92
14
Marcelo Miras Trousseau Nouveau
Red
92
13.5
Marcelo Pelleriti Kauzo Malbec
Uco Valley
Red
90
14.5
2014
Marcelo Pelleriti Malbec Reserve
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
14.5
Marcelo Pelleriti Sol Fa Sol Malbec
Uco Valley
2015
Red
88
14
Marcelo Pelleriti Sol Fa Sol Torrontés
La Rioja
2015
White
89
13.5
Mariano di Paola Mapema Malbec/Tempranillo
La Consulta
2015
Red
92
14
Mariano di Paola Mapema Malbec
Tupungato
2015
Red
91
14
Mariano di Paola Mapema Sauvignon Blanc
Tupungato
2015
White
89
12.6
Masi Passo Doble
Tupungato
2013
Red
84
13.5
Masi Pinot Grigio/Torrontés
Uco Valley
2015
White
83
12.5
Mater Vini Alteza Malbec
Salta
2014
Red
94
14
Mater Vini Alteza Malbec
Argentina
2013
Red
93
14.8
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 136
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Mater Vini Antes Andes Malbec
Calchaqui Valley
2014
Red
93
15
Mater Vini Antes Andes Malbec
Canota Valley
2014
Red
90
14.5
Mater Vini Finca Malbec
Perdriel
2014
Red
94
14.5
Mater Vini Piedras Viejas
El Challao
2014
Red
94
14.5
Mater Vini Tinto
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14.5
Melipal Blend
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
15
Melipal Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
15.3
Melipal Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
88
14.9
Melipal Nazarenas Vineyard Malbec
Agrelo
2013
Red
86
15.2
Mendel Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel
2014
Red
93
14.5
Mendel Finca Remota Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
96
14.4
Mendel Lunta Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
91
14.4
Mendel Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14.5
Mendel Petit Verdot
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
93
14.6
Mendel Semillon
Paraje Altamira
2015
White
94
13.5
Mendel Unus
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
14.7
Mendoza Vineyards Fairhills 1907
Mendoza
2015
White
86
13.5
Mendoza Vineyards La Mano Verde
Mendoza
2015
Red
87
13.5
Mendoza Vineyards MV Gran Reserva
Mendoza
2012
Red
86
14
Mendoza Vineyards R&B
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
14
Mi Terruño Bonarda Reserve
Maipú
2013
Red
86
13.5
Mi Terruño Cabernet Franc Reserve
Maipú
2012
Red
87
13.5
Mi Terruño Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Reserve
Maipú
2011
Red
86
14
Mi Terruño Mayacaba
Maipú
2011
Red
85
14
Michelini Brothers Super Uco Calcáreo Malbec
Chacayes
2013
Red
93
14
Michelini Brothers Super Uco Calcáreo Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
92
14
Monte Quieto Quieto 3 Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14.3
Monte Quieto Quieto 3 Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14.3
Monte Quieto Quieto Blend
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14.4
Monte Quieto Quieto Family Selection
Mendoza
2010
Red
87
14.1
Montechez Alma de Luna
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14.5
Montechez Cabernet Franc
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14.5
Montechez Chardonnay Reserva
Mendoza
2015
White
85
13.9
Montechez Edición Limitada Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
14.1
Montechez Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2012
Red
91
14.1
Monteviejo Festivo Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14
Monteviejo Lindaflor Blend
Uco Valley
2012
Red
91
14.5
Monteviejo Lindaflor Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
15
Monteviejo Petite Fleur Blend
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
14.5
Monteviejo Petite Fleur Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
14.5
Moor-Barrio Initium Brut Nature
Mendoza
2012
Sparkling
90
12.7
Moor-Barrio Initium Gran Malbec
La Consulta
2013
Red
93
14
Morelli Vino de Cava Blanc de Noir
Gualtallary
2015
White
92
11
Morelli Vino de Cava Caliche Blend
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
13
Morelli Vino de Cava Caliche Bonarda
Uco Valley
2014
Red
90
12
Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
13.5
Morelli Vino de Cava Refrán Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
91
13.8
Mosquita Muerta
Vista Flores
2011
Red
93
14
Mosquita Muerta Perro Callejero Blend de Malbec
Vista Flores
2013
Red
87
14.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 137
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Mosquita Muerta Pispi Blend de Tintas
Vista Flores
2013
Red
90
14.5
Mosquita Muerta Sapo de Otro Pozo
Vista Flores
2012
Red
90
14
Mundo Revès Mabec
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
14.5
Muñoz de Toro Valle Perdido Gran Reserva
Neuquén
2008
Red
75
14
Muñoz de Toro Valle Perdido Malbec Reserva
Neuquén
2011
Red
80
14
Muñoz de Toro Valle Perdido Pinot Noir
Neuquén
2007
Red
89
14
Muñoz de Toro Valle Perdido Pinot Noir Reserva
Neuquén
2012
Red
82
14
Mythic Vineyards Mythic Barrel
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Mythic Vineyards Mythic Block Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Mythic Vineyards Mythic Estate Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
13.5
Mythic Vineyards Mythic Vineyard Chardonnay/Viognier
Mendoza
2014
White
90
14
Mythic Vineyards Mythic Vineyard Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.5
Navarro Correas Alegoría Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2013
White
91
12.7
Navarro Correas Alegoría Gran Reserva Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
14.6
Navarro Correas Colección Privada Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
13.5
Navarro Correas Colección Privada Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
13.5
Navarro Correas Grande Cuvée
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
89
13
Navarro Correas Selección de Enologo Single Vineyard Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
93
14.5
Navarro Correas Selección de Parcelas Cabernet Sauvignon
Gualtallary
2012
Red
92
14
Navarro Correas Selección de Parcelas Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Navarro Correas Structura Ultra
Mendoza
2011
Red
90
15
Nieto Senetiner Blend Collection
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
90
14
Nieto Senetiner Don Nicanor Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
90
14
Nieto Senetiner Don Nicanor Villa Blanca Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2010
Red
87
15
Nieto Senetiner Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
90
14
Noemía A Lisa Malbec
Río Negro
2014
Red
91
14
Noemía J Alberto Malbec
Río Negro
2013
Red
94
14.5
Noemía Malbec
Río Negro
2013
Red
95
15
Norton Cosecha Especial Brut
Mendoza
2011
Sparkling
89
12.9
Norton Cosecha Especial Extra Brut
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
84
12
Norton Gernot Langes
Mendoza
2010
Red
95
14.8
Norton Lote A112 Malbec
Agrelo
2012
Red
95
14.5
Norton Lote L112 Malbec
Lunlunta
2012
Red
94
14.5
Norton Lote LC112 Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
93
14.9
Norton Perdriel Coleccíon Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel
2013
Red
90
14
Norton Perdriel Coleccíon Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
91
14.2
Norton Perdriel Colección Sauvignon Blanc
Perdriel
2015
White
90
13.5
Norton Perdriel Vineyard Selection
Perdriel
2010
Red
94
14.5
Norton Privada
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14.5
Norton Privada Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
94
14.5
Norton Reserva Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
91
13.7
Norton Winemaker's Reserve Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14.5
O Fournier A Crux Blend
Uco Valley
2009
Red
91
15.5
O Fournier A Crux Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
89
14
O Fournier A Crux Cuvée
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
93
11.5
O Fournier A Crux Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
91
15
O Fournier A Crux Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2013
Red
87
14.5
O Fournier A Crux Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2014
White
93
12
O Fournier B Crux Blend
Uco Valley
2012
Red
91
15
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 138
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
O Fournier B Crux Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
91
12
O Fournier Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
15
O Fournier Urban Uco Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
84
13.5
O Fournier Urban Uco Malbec
Uco Valley
2015
Red
89
14.5
O Fournier Urban Uco Malbec/Tempranillo
Uco Valley
2015
Red
90
14.5
O Fournier Urban Uco Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
86
12
O Fournier Urban Uco Tempranillo
Uco Valley
2015
Red
89
14.5
O Fournier Urban Uco Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
89
13.5
Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Contract
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Malo
Agrelo
2012
Red
92
15
Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Puro Corte d'Oro
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
14.5
Ojo de Agua Ojo de Vino Puro Malbec
Agrelo
2015
Red
88
14.5
Ojo de Agua Puro Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo
2015
Red
90
14
Onofri Wines Alma Gemela Pedro Ximénez
Mendoza
2015
White
89
13
Onofri Wines Zenith Nadir
Mendoza
2014
White
92
13
Paimán 5 Hileras
Chañarmuyo Valley
2013
Red
89
14.5
Paimán Keo Malbec Roble
Chañarmuyo Valley
2013
Red
90
14.5
Paimán Keo Tannat Roble
Chañarmuyo Valley
2014
Red
91
14.5
Pala Corazón Blend
Jujuy
2014
Red
85
14
Pala Corazón Bonarda
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
13
Pala Corazón Bonarda/Tempranillo
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
13
Pala Corazón Extra Brut
Uco Valley
NV
Sparkling
88
12.4
Pala Corazón Malbec
Gualtallary
2012
Red
88
13.8
Pala Corazón Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
87
14
Pascual Toso Alta Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
14
Pascual Toso Barrancas Toso
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14.5
Pascual Toso Finca Pedregal Single Vineyard
Mendoza
2013
Red
91
14.5
Pascual Toso Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.5
Passionate Wine Diverso Syrah
Gualtallary
2013
Red
84
11
Passionate Wine Eterno Retorno
Tupungato
2013
Red
87
13.5
Per Se Francesca
Vista Flores
2014
Red
94
14.4
Per Se Iubileus Malbec
Gualtallary
2014
Red
93
14.2
Per Se La Craie
Gualtallary
2014
Red
96
14.4
Per Se Volare del Camino
Gualtallary
2014
Red
95
14.4
Piattelli Premium Malbec
Cafayate
2014
Red
87
14.4
Piattelli Premium Reserve Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
90
14
Piattelli Premium Reserve Malbec/Tannat
Cafayate
2014
Red
89
14.8
Piattelli Premium Reserve Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
88
14
Piedra Negra Chacayes
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
14.5
Piedra Negra Gran Lurton
Uco Valley
2014
White
95
13.5
Piedra Negra Gran Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
15
Piedra Negra Gran Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2011
Red
90
15
Piedra Negra Gran Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
92
15
Piedra Negra Malbec Alta Colección
Uco Valley
2015
Red
86
14
Piedra Negra Pinot Gris
Uco Valley
2015
White
89
12.5
Piedra Negra Pinot Gris Rosado
Uco Valley
2015
Rosé
89
12.5
Piedra Negra Reserve
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14.5
Piedra Negra Vuela Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
91
12.5
Plop! Rosado de Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2015
Rosé
90
11.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 139
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Plop! Tinto de Malbec y Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2015
Red
91
10.5
Proemio Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.4
Proemio Wines Grand Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.6
Proemio Wines Icon
Mendoza
2011
Red
89
14.6
Proemio Wines Malbec Reserve
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.5
Pucará
Salta
2013
Red
93
15.5
Puerto Ancona Alma Negra M Blend
Vista Flores
2014
Red
84
13.5
Puerto Ancona Siesta Cabernet Franc
Vista Flores
2013
Red
89
13.8
Puerto Ancona Siesta Malbec
Vista Flores
2013
Red
88
13.7
Puerto Ancona Tikal Natural
Vista Flores
2014
Red
91
13.5
Pulenta Estate Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo
2013
Red
93
14.5
Pulenta Estate Chardonnay
Agrelo
2015
White
92
13
Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Franc
Agrelo
2012
Red
95
14.5
Pulenta Estate Gran Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
14.5
Pulenta Estate Gran Corte
Mendoza
2012
Red
96
14.5
Pulenta Estate Gran Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
94
14.5
Pulenta Estate Gran Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2012
Red
92
14.5
Pulenta Estate La Flor Cabernet Sauvignon
Agrelo
2014
Red
90
14.5
Pulenta Estate La Flor Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
89
14.5
Pulenta Estate La Flor Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
88
12
Pulenta Estate Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Pulenta Estate Merlot
Agrelo
2012
Red
93
14.5
Pulenta Estate Pinot Gris
Agrelo
2015
White
89
13
Pulenta Estate Red Blend
Mendoza
2012
Red
92
14.5
Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Finca Don Antonio Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
14.5
Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Finca La Zulema Malbec
Agrelo
2013
Red
92
14.5
Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Gualtallary Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
14.5
Pulenta Estate Single Vineyard Red Blend
Mendoza
2010
Red
91
14.5
Pulmary Cabernet Sauvignon Orgánico
Medrano
2014
Red
87
14.5
Puramun Co-Fermentado Blend
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Puramun Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2013
Red
95
14
Pyros Barrel Selected Malbec
Pedernal
2014
Red
92
14.5
Pyros Barrel Selected Syrah
Pedernal
2014
Red
92
14
Pyros Single Vineyard Malbec
Pedernal
2013
Red
93
14
Pyros Special Blend
Pedernal
2012
Red
94
14
Renacer Enamore
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
89
14.7
Renacer Punto Final Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
85
14
Renacer Punto Final Malbec Clásico
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
88
13.5
Renacer Punto Final Malbec Reserva
Luján de Cuyo
2014
Red
89
14.6
Revancha La Gran Revancha
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Revancha La Primera Revancha Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
93
14.5
Revancha Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
91
14.6
Revolver Chardonnay
Gualtallary
2015
White
91
12.8
Revolver Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2015
Red
88
13.5
Rewen Estate
San Juan
2013
Red
87
13.8
Rewen Estate Petit Verdot
San Juan
2013
Red
84
13.5
Riccitelli Wines Hey! Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
92
14.5
Riccitelli Wines Old Vines Semillon
Patagonia
2015
White
95
14
Riccitelli Wines República del Malbec
Vistalba
2014
Red
94
14.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 140
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Riccitelli Wines Riccitelli & Father
Mendoza
2013
Red
92
14.5
Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Bonarda
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14
Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14.5
Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Pinot Gris
Mendoza
2015
White
90
13
Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14
Riccitelli Wines The Apple Doesn't Fall Far From The Tree Rosado
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
91
13
Riccitelli Wines Vineyard Selection Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
93
14
Riccitelli Wines Vineyard Selection Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14
Riglos Gran Cabernet Franc
Tupungato
2014
Red
94
14.5
Riglos Gran Cabernet Sauvignon
Tupungato
2013
Red
96
14.5
Riglos Gran Corte
Tupungato
2013
Red
95
14.5
Riglos Gran Malbec
Tupungato
2013
Red
93
14.4
Riglos Quinto Malbec
Gualtallary
2014
Red
91
14.7
Riglos Quinto Sauvignon Blanc
Gualtallary
2015
White
88
12.1
RPB Bodega Privada Rosado de Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Rosé
82
14.1
RPB El Supremo Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
85
13.6
RPB Ricordi Roble Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2012
Red
87
13.5
RPB Ricordi Roble Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
84
13.7
Ruca Malen Brut
Mendoza
NV
Sparkling
87
12.8
Ruca Malen Chardonnay
Mendoza
2015
White
90
13.7
Ruca Malen Kinien Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
87
13.8
Ruca Malen Petit Verdot
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
14
Rutini Antologia XLII
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14.2
Rutini Apartado Gran Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
91
13.7
Rutini Apartado Gran Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
14.6
Rutini Colección Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
13.8
Rutini Colección Cabernet Sauvignon/Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Rutini Encuentro Barrel Blend
Mendoza
2012
Red
93
14.2
Rutini Encuentro Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
88
13.9
Rutini Encuentro Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2013
Red
88
13.5
Rutini Merlot
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14.4
Rutini Sauvignon Blanc
Tupungato
2015
White
91
12.6
Rutini Single Vineyard Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2012
Red
94
14.2
Rutini Single Vineyard Merlot
Paraje Altamira
2011
Red
93
14
Salentein Barrel Selection Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Salentein Barrel Selection Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
89
13.5
Salentein Barrel Selection Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Salentein Barrel Selection Pinot Noir
Uco Valley
2014
Red
90
13.5
Salentein Gran Vu
Uco Valley
2012
Red
93
15
Salentein Killka Blend
Uco Valley
2014
Red
88
14
Salentein Killka Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
84
13.5
Salentein Killka Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14
Salentein Numina Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
14.5
Salentein Numina Gran Corte
Uco Valley
2013
Red
94
14.5
Salentein Numina Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
92
14.5
Salentein Numina Syrah
Uco Valley
2013
Red
89
14.5
Salentein Primus Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
14.5
Salentein Primus Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2013
White
93
13.5
Salentein Primus Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
93
14
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 141
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Salentein Single Vineyard Chardonnay Plot No. 2
Uco Valley
2013
White
94
13.5
Salentein Single Vineyard Malbec La Pampa Plot No. 21
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14.5
Salentein Single Vineyard Malbec Plot No. 1
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
94
14.5
Salentein Single Vineyard Malbec Plot No. 14
Uco Valley
2014
Red
95
14.5
Salentein Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Plot No. 1
Uco Valley
2014
Red
94
14
Salentein Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
86
13
Saltallary Sauvignon Blanc
Argentina
2015
White
90
12.5
Salvador Figueroa Gualiama
Cafayate
2015
Red
89
15.5
Salvador Figueroa Gualiama Malbec
Cafayate
2014
Red
88
15.5
Salvador Figueroa Gualiama Roble
Cafayate
2015
Red
87
15.5
San Huberto Malbec
La Rioja
2015
Red
86
13
San Huberto Malbec Reserva
La Rioja
2014
Red
87
13.5
San Huberto Nina Blend
Argentina
2012
Red
91
14
San Huberto Nina Cabernet/Malbec
Argentina
2011
Red
88
14
San Huberto Nina Gran Malbec
La Rioja
2013
Red
86
13
San Huberto Nina Petit Verdot
La Rioja
2010
Red
88
14
San Huberto Nina Torrontés
La Rioja
2015
White
88
13.5
Cafayate
2015
White
92
13.9
Cafayate
2013
Red
91
15.5
San Pedro de Yacochuya Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
90
14
Seclantas Adentro
Salta
2013
Red
90
15.5
Seclantas Adentro
Salta
2013
Red
88
15.5
Secreto Patagónico Mantra Chardonnay Edición Limitada
Patagonia
2015
White
88
14.1
Secreto Patagónico Mantra Malbec Reserva
Patagonia
2012
Red
87
14
Secreto Patagónico Mantra Pinot Noir
Patagonia
2015
Red
86
14
Secreto Patagónico Mantra Pinot Noir Reserva
Patagonia
2014
Red
78
14.2
Secreto Patagónico Pinot Noir Edición Limitada
Patagonia
2015
Red
86
13.5
Sierra Lima Alpha Malbec
Molinos
2014
Red
91
15
Sin Fin Gran Guarda Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
87
13.9
Sin Fin Guarda Bonarda
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
13.4
SonVida Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
14
SonVida Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Sottano Cabernet Sauvignon Clásico
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14
Sottano Judas Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
15.3
Sottano Malbec Clásico
Mendoza
2014
Red
87
14
Sottano Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
88
14.5
Tamari AR Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
86
14.7
Tamari Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
84
14
Tamari Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
88
14
Tamari Red Passion Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
14
Tapiz Alta Colección Cabernet Sauvignon
Uco Valley
2013
Red
83
13.9
Tapiz Alta Colección Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
85
13.9
Tapiz Bicentenario
Uco Valley
2010
Red
89
14
Tapiz Zolo Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
84
14
Tempus Alba 50 Años Malbec
Anchoris
2010
Red
92
14
Tempus Alba Syrah
Anchoris
2012
Red
90
14
Tempus Alba Vero Malbec
Mendoza
2010
Red
94
14
Terrazas de los Andes Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
93
14.3
Terrazas de los Andes Chardonnay Reserva
Mendoza
2015
White
92
13.8
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 142
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.4
Terrazas de los Andes Single Parcel Los Castaños Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2011
Red
94
14.5
Terrazas de los Andes Single Parcel Los Cerezos Malbec
Las Compuertas
2011
Red
93
14.6
Terrazas de los Andes Single Vineyard Las Compuertas Malbec
Las Compuertas
2012
Red
94
14.6
Terrazas de los Andes Single Vineyard Los Aromos Cabernet Sauvignon
Perdriel
2012
Red
92
13.9
Terrazas de los Andes Torrontés Reserva
Cafayate
2015
White
90
13.8
The Vines of Mendoza Carmelita Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2012
Red
89
14.5
The Vines of Mendoza De Moño Rojo Marsanne
Uco Valley
2015
White
87
14
The Vines of Mendoza De Moño Rojo Roussanne
Uco Valley
2015
White
86
14
The Vines of Mendoza Encendido Cruzado
Uco Valley
2013
Red
82
14.5
The Vines of Mendoza Nunum GSM
Uco Valley
2012
Red
86
14
The Vines of Mendoza Pozos Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
89
14.2
The Vines of Mendoza Recuerdo Aliado Malbec Reserva
Uco Valley
2013
Red
88
14.2
The Vines of Mendoza Recuerdo Gran Corte
Uco Valley
2012
Red
89
14.5
The Vines of Mendoza Recuerdo Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
13.7
The Vines of Mendoza Recuerdo Sauvignon Blanc
Uco Valley
2015
White
83
14
The Vines of Mendoza Recuerdo Torrontés
Uco Valley
2015
White
85
14.5
The Vines of Mendoza Serca Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
86
14.9
The Vines of Mendoza Tierra de Dioses Cabernet Franc
Uco Valley
2014
Red
83
14.5
The Vines of Mendoza Topografia Barrel-Fermented Malbec
Uco Valley
2011
Red
86
15.4
The Vines of Mendoza Topografia Cabernet Franc Reserva
Uco Valley
2011
Red
78
15
Tintonegro 1955 Vineyard
La Consulta
2013
Red
96
14
Tintonegro Finca La Escuela Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
95
14
Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard Cabernet Franc
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard El Limo Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Arena Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
91
14
Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Grava Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
93
14
Tintonegro La Escuela Vineyard La Piedra Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
95
14
Tintonegro Limestone Block Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Tintonegro Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
90
14
Tintonegro Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2015
Red
86
14
Tittarelli Don Enrico Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
82
13.2
Tittarelli Enrico T
Mendoza
2015
Red
87
14.5
Tittarelli Oak-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
83
13
Tittarelli Oak-Aged Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
86
13.5
Trapezio Bo Bó by Trapezio
Agrelo
2012
Red
86
14
Trapezio Bo Bó Gran Corte
Agrelo
2011
Red
86
14
Trapezio Petit Bo Bó Chardonnay
Agrelo
2013
White
86
13
Trapezio Petit Bo Bó Sauvignon Blanc
Agrelo
2015
White
88
12.5
Trapezio Petit Bo Bó Tinto Blend
Agrelo
2012
Red
80
14
Trapiche Broquel Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14
Trapiche Broquel Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.5
Trapiche Broquel Pinot Noir
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14
Trapiche Costa & Pampa Chardonnay
Chapadmalal
2015
White
91
13
Trapiche Costa & Pampa Pinot Noir
Chapadmalal
2015
Red
91
12.8
Trapiche Gran Medalla Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
93
13.5
Trapiche Iscay
Mendoza
2011
Red
96
14.5
Trapiche Iscay Syrah/Viognier
Uco Valley
2013
Red
95
14.5
Trapiche Malkina Malbec
Mendoza
2015
Red
86
14
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 143
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Trapiche Medalla Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14.5
Trapiche Medalla Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2014
White
91
13.5
Trapiche Medalla Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
91
14.5
Trapiche Oak Cask Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14
Trapiche Oak Cask Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14
Trapiche Pure Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2015
Red
90
14.5
Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Cristina y Bibiana Coletto
Tupungato
2012
Red
95
14.5
Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Ambrosía
Gualtallary
2012
Red
96
15.5
Trapiche Terroir Series Malbec Finca Orellana de Escobar
La Consulta
2012
Red
95
14.5
Tres 14 Imperfecto
Gualtallary
2013
Red
96
14.5
Tres 14 Tinto de Garage
Vista Flores
2013
Red
90
14.5
Trivento Eolo Malbec
Uco Valley
2012
Red
91
15
Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
88
14.5
Trivento Malbec Reserve
Mendoza
2015
Red
87
13.5
Trivento Syrah Reserve
Mendoza
2014
Red
85
13.5
Tukma Altura 2670 Sauvignon Blanc
Jujuy
2015
White
91
13.5
Tukma Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva
Cafayate
2013
Red
90
13.8
Tukma Finca Las Nubes
Salta
2014
Red
88
13.5
Tukma Finca Las Nubes Torrontés
Cafayate
2015
White
91
13.5
Tukma Gran Corte
Cafayate
2013
Red
93
13.8
Tukma Gran Torrontés
Salta
2014
White
91
14
Tukma Malbec Reserva
Cafayate
2013
Red
89
13.8
Underground Bonus Track Blend
Gualtallary
2014
Red
86
14.5
Underground Ruido Blanco
Gualtallary
2015
White
92
12.6
Vaglio Aggie Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
90
14.2
Vaglio Alto Cabernet Franc
Agrelo
2014
Red
93
14
Vaglio Chacra Malbec
Agrelo
2014
Red
91
13.9
Vaglio Chango
Argentina
2014
Red
88
14
Vaglio Temple Malbec
Anchoris
2014
Red
90
14
Valle Las Nencias Family Selection Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
88
14.9
Valle Las Nencias Malbec Reserve
Mendoza
2013
Red
90
14.5
Vallisto Felix
Salta
2010
Red
92
14.5
Vallisto Malbec
Cafayate
2011
Red
88
14.5
Vallisto Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
90
14
Ver Sacrum Garnacha
Vista Flores
2014
Red
91
13.5
Ver Sacrum GSM
Vista Flores
2014
Red
93
14
Ver Sacrum Monastrell
Vista Flores
2014
Red
92
13.5
Vicentin Arrogante
Mendoza
2011
Red
89
15.5
Vicentin Blanc de Malbec
Mendoza
2014
White
91
14.3
Vicentin Colosso Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
91
15.5
Vicentin Maldito
Mendoza
NV
Red
90
15.5
Viña Alicia Brote Negro Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
90
14.5
Viña Alicia Cuarzo Petit Verdot
Mendoza
2010
Red
90
14.7
Viña Alicia Malbec
Las Compuertas
2012
Red
91
14.8
Viña Alicia Morena
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
91
14.5
Viña Alicia Nebbiolo
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
91
14.8
Viña Alicia Paso de Piedra Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
89
14.5
Viña Alicia Paso de Piedra Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
90
14.8
Viña Cobos Bramare Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
92
14.5
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 144
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Viña Cobos Bramare Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
92
14.5
Viña Cobos Bramare Malbec
Uco Valley
2013
Red
91
14.5
Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2013
Red
94
14.5
Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Chardonnay
Mendoza
2014
White
92
14.5
Viña Cobos Bramare Marchiori Vineyard Malbec
Perdriel
2012
Red
93
15
Viña Cobos Bramare Rebon Vineyard Malbec
La Consulta
2012
Red
94
14.5
Viña Cobos Bramare Touza Vineyard Malbec
Las Compuertas
2013
Red
92
14
Viña Cobos Bramare Zingaretti Vineyard Malbec
Tupungato
2013
Red
94
14.5
Viña Cobos Cocodrillo Corte
Mendoza
2014
Red
90
14.5
Viña Cobos Felino Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.5
Viña Cobos Felino Chardonnay
Mendoza
2015
White
89
14.5
Viña Cobos Felino Malbec
Mendoza
2014
Red
89
14.5
Viña Cobos Malbec
Perdriel
2013
Red
96
14.9
Viña Cobos Volturno
Mendoza
2012
Red
94
14.5
Viña Las Perdices Ala Colorada Cabernet Franc
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
92
14.5
Viña Las Perdices Don Juan Reserva
Agrelo
2013
Red
90
15
Viña Las Perdices Tinamú
Luján de Cuyo
2011
Red
91
15
Viña Las Perdices Torrontés
Mendoza
2015
White
87
14
Viña Vida Business Class Gran Reserva
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.5
Viña Vida Mourvèdre
Uco Valley
2014
Red
89
14.5
Viñalba 50/50 Reservado
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14.5
Viñalba 80/20 Reservado
Mendoza
2014
Red
92
14.5
Viñalba Malbec/Syrah
Patagonia
2014
Red
93
14.5
Viñalba Malbec/Touriga Nacional Reservado
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14.5
Viñalba Reservado Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
91
14.5
Vinorum Reserva
Mendoza
2014
Red
80
13.9
Vinorum Victorio Altieri Gran Reserva Malbec
Mendoza
2013
Red
83
14
Weinert Cabernet Franc
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
89
14.8
Weinert Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2006
Red
93
14.5
Weinert Carrascal Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
90
14
Weinert Carrascal Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2012
Red
89
14
Weinert Carrascal Tempranillo
Luján de Cuyo
2013
Red
91
13.5
Weinert Carrascal Tinto
Luján de Cuyo
2010
Red
92
14.5
Weinert Cavas de Weinert Gran Vino
Luján de Cuyo
1983
Red
96
14
Luján de Cuyo
2006
Red
94
15
Luján de Cuyo
1997
Red
94
14.5
Weinert Estrella Cabernet Sauvignon
Luján de Cuyo
1994
Red
95
14.5
Weinert Estrella Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
1994
Red
96
14.5
Weinert Estrella Merlot
Luján de Cuyo
1999
Red
94
14.8
Weinert Malbec
Luján de Cuyo
2006
Red
93
14.5
Weinert Merlot
Luján de Cuyo
2006
Red
92
14
Weinert Pedro del Castillo Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza
2012
Red
88
14
Weinert Pedro del Castillo Malbec
Mendoza
2012
Red
89
14
Yacochuya Malbec
Salta
2013
Red
92
15.5
Yacuil
Salta
2013
Red
92
15
Zorzal Eggo Blanc de Cal
Gualtallary
2015
White
93
13.4
Zorzal Eggo Bonaparte
Tupungato
2015
Red
92
13
Zorzal Eggo Filoso Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
2014
Red
93
13.1
Zorzal Eggo Franco
Gualtallary
2015
Red
94
13.9
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 145
ALCOHOL %
2016 SCORE
COLOUR
VINTAGE
REGION
WINE NAME
Zorzal Eggo Tinto de Tiza
Tupungato
2014
Red
93
14.5
Zorzal Field Blend
Gualtallary
2013
Red
95
14.5
Zorzal Gran Terroir Pinot Noir
Tupungato
2013
Red
93
14
Zorzal Piantao
Tupungato
2012
Red
91
14.5
Zorzal Porfiado Pinot Noir
Gualtallary
NV
Red
86
13.6
Zorzal Terroir Unico Malbec
Gualtallary
2014
Red
92
14
Zorzal Terroir Unico Pinot Noir
Tupungato
2014
Red
90
13.6
Zorzal Terroir Unico Pinot Noir Rosé
Gualtallary
2015
Rosé
89
13.6
Zorzal Terroir Unico Sauvignon Blanc
Gualtallary
2015
White
90
12
Zuccardi Aluvional Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
97
14.5
La Consulta
2013
Red
96
14.5
Gualtallary
2013
Red
96
14.5
Zuccardi Concreto Malbec
Paraje Altamira
2015
Red
95
14
Zuccardi Emma Zuccardi Bonarda
Paraje Altamira
2014
Red
94
12.9
Zuccardi Finca Canal Uco
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
98
15
Zuccardi Finca Los Membrillos Cabernet Sauvignon
La Consulta
2013
Red
96
14.5
Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita
Paraje Altamira
2013
Red
97
15
Zuccardi Q Chardonnay
Uco Valley
2015
White
92
13.8
Zuccardi Q Malbec
Uco Valley
2014
Red
92
14
Zuccardi Q Tempranillo
Mendoza
2013
Red
89
14
Zuccardi Serie A Bonarda
Santa Rosa
2015
Red
89
13
Zuccardi Serie A Malbec
Uco Valley
2015
Red
90
14
Zuccardi Serie A Torrontés
Salta
2015
White
90
14.5
Zuccardi Tito
Uco Valley
2014
Red
93
14
Zuccardi Zeta
Uco Valley
2012
Red
95
15
©2015 Tim Atkin
Page 146
Recommended
restaurants
Buenos Aires
Aldo’s Vinoteca www.aldosvinoteca.com
Aramburu www.arambururesto.com.ar
Astor Bistro www.astorbistro.com
Casa Umare www.casaumare.com
Chila www.chilaweb.com.ar
Don Julio www.parilladonjulio.com.ar
El Obrero www.bodegonelobrero.com.ar
Fierro Hotel www.fierrohotel.com
Four Seasons (Elena Restaurant)
www.fourseasons.com/buenosaires
El Ceibo +54 0261 4202993
H Resto +54 0261 6935155
Ituzaingo Restó www.ituzaingoresto.com.ar
María Restaurant (Bodega Septima) www.bodegaseptima.com
Osadía de Crear (Dominio del Plata)
www.dominiodelplata.com.ar
Fuente y Fondalorentino Bistro www.fuenteyfonda.com.ar
1884 www.1884restaurante.com.ar
María Antonieta www.mariaantonietaresto.com.ar
Restaurant Terruño www.tapiz.com.ar
Siete Cocinas www.sietecocinas.com.ar
La Brigada www.parrillalabrigada.com.ar
Neuquén
La Cabrera www.parrillalacabrera.com.ar
Familia Schroeder www.saurus.com.ar
Oviedo www.oviedoresto.com.ar
La Toscana www.latoscanarestaurante.com
Restó + 54 (0)11 4816 6711
Sucre www.sucrerestaurant.com.ar
Tegui www.tegui.com.ar
Unik www.unik.pro
Mendoza
Azafrán www.azafranresto.com
Anna Bistro www.annabistro.com
Bistro M at Park Hyatt www.mendoza.park.hyatt.com
Bodega Casarena Restaurant www.casarena.com
Bodega Lagarde Restaurant www.lagarde.com.ar
Bodega Ruca Malen www.bodegarucamalen.com
Brindillas Restaurant www.brindillas.com
Casa del Visitante (Familia Zuccardi)
www.casadelvisitante.com
Casa El Enemigo +54 0261 6974213
Don Alonso +54 0261 4235538
Further
reading
Salta
Altalaluna Boutique Hotel www.altalaluna.com
Bodega Piatelli www.piatellivineyards.com
Grace Cafayate www.gracehotels.com
Terruño www.terruno.todowebsalta.com.ar
Uco Valley
Alpasión Restaurant www.alpasion.com
Andeluna www.andeluna.com.ar
Atamisque www.atamisque.com
Casa de Uco www.casadeuco.com
El Cielo + 54 (0) 2622 470814
Ilo + 54 (0) 2622 488323
La Azul (Bodega La Azul) www.bodegalaazul.com
La Juntada www.almacendeuco.com
La Posada del Jamón www.laposadadeljamon.com.ar
Posada Salentein www.bodegassalentein.com
Siete Fuegos Aaado www.vinesofmendoza.com
Urban (O Fournier) www.ofournier.com
These are all books about Argentina that I have found both
interesting and useful on my travels.
by Edwin Williamson (Penguin)
Andes by Michael Jacobs (Granta)
Todo Lo Otro by Matías Michelini
Bodegas & Vinos de Argentina International Yearbook
(Area del Vino)
Vino Argentino by Laura Catena (Chronicle Books)
Buenos Aires: A Cultural and Literary History
by Jason Wilson (Signal Books)
In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin (Picador)
La mil y una curiosidades de Buenos Aires
by Diego Zigiotto (Libreria Norma)
Más allá del Malbec by Andres Rosberg and Eduardo Antin
(Editorial Sudamericana)
The Vineyard at the End of the World
by Ian Mount (WW Norton)
Wines of South America
by Evan Goldstein (University of California Press)
I would also recommend the website of Wines of Argentina
(www.winesofargentina.org) for information on wineries,
vintages, vineyard plantings and other news and that of the
Instituto Nacional de Vitivinicultura (www.inv.gov.ar) for
in-depth statistics.
The Penguin History of Latin America
©2016 Tim Atkin
Page 147
For tasting notes, articles, music and
wine matches & more special reports,
go to www.timatkin.com
Sign up to receive my newsletter.
You can also follow me on twitter
@timatkin
All images and written content 2016 © Tim Atkin
Sub-editing by Sue Wixley
Layout by Elise Castrodale
I would like to acknowledge the help and support of Wines of
Argentina in funding a trip to Argentina in February 2016.
Agustín Marchena of Hon Travel drove me around Mendoza for
ten days and introduced me to some great new music. And my
friend and right arm María Laura Ortiz of Winifera organised
my sit-down tastings in Mendoza. Bueno, bueno, bueno!

Argentina 2016 Special Report

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