Single vineyard labels highly-rated by James Suckling
Well-known expert wine critic from the USA, James Suckling, rated two of our Single Vineyard wines outstandingly in his report Top 100 Wines of Argentina 2023. The wines at this price point are carefully crafted by placing big emphasis on plot division and the identity of the Gualtallary terroir, in Uco Valley, to achieve the best expression of typicity possible.
The ratings were 95 points for Single Vineyard Gualtallary Malbec and 94 points for Single Vineyard Gualtallary Cabernet Franc; both labels are fine wines aged in oak barrels for 12 months and estimated to have an aging potential of 15 years.
The Malbec is bright purple with deep garnet hues; on the nose it is strikingly aromatic with hints of flowers (violets) and red fruits (cherries, plums and blueberries). Its broad palate depicts the unique expression of Argentine Malbec and the terroir it is sourced from. The red and black fruits, as well as the spicy notes (pepper and vanilla), are underpinned by the maturation in oak barrels, which has also imparted bitter chocolate and tobacco nuances. On the aftertaste, there is an astringent streak and a well-achieved acidity level, both of which promise long cellar worthiness. We recommend pairing this label with grilled red meats, such as rib eye and French fries, oven-baked tri tip roast, Mediterranean lamb, tenderloin brochette, spicy chicken empanadas, stews and meat casserole.
The Cabernet Franc is bright deep purple. The nose is fragrant and reminiscent of fresh and candied red fruits (sour cherry) with subtle hints of mint, besides notes of vanilla and tobacco as a result of oak-aging. The palate reveals ripe silky tannins. There is great finesse in its round and distinct profile as well as in its vibrant and lingering aftertaste. It matches beautifully with grilled or baked beef steak, tofu or vegetable cannelloni or Patagonian lamb.