2017 Luca Valle de Uco Paraje Altamira Malbec

$ 19.99


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This Malbec is from the newly designated sub-appellation Paraje Altamira in the Uco Valley. Available exclusively at restaurants and wine bars. The vineyards in Altamira (Uco Valley) are composed of shallow, rocky, alluvial soils that are irrigated by the Andes snowmelt. The grapes are hand-harvested and aged 12 months in 30% new French barrels and 70% 2nd use French barrels. Notes of black cherry and dark berry with hints of violet, vanilla, and mocha. Deep and dense on the palate with round tannins. This ia great expression of Malbec from the sunny days and cold nights of Altamira. Pairs well with steak, pork dishes, and chicken in rich sauces.

From The Winery
Laura Catena grew up in a wine-making family in Mendoza. Although she now splits her time between Mendoza and San Francisco (where she is a Emergency Room Physician, university professor, mother of three, and accomplished tango dancer!), Laura's heart remains in Argentina and winemaking. She had a vision of creating a new breed of Argentine wines: small quantities, artisan quality, and true to their individual terroirs. A true pioneer of small-grower relations in Mendoza, Laura's incredible, limited production wines come from some of Argentina's best fruit from low-yield, high elevation, family-owned vineyards. Her final varietal blends deliver power along with complexity and finesse. They are the ultimate expression of rigorous vineyard management, viticultural experimentation, strict irrigation controls, skilled winemaking, and a quest for quality at any cost.

Wine Enthusiast, 93 points 
This Malbec from the Paraje Altamira section of the Uco Valley is a new member of the Luca lineup, and it more than holds its own. A generously oaked nose smells of earthy berry and black cherry along with graphite. A flush palate is well balanced, while this tastes of herbal plum and cassis backed by a touch of smoky oak. Fleshy berry flavors carry a plump and pulpy finish. Drink through 2025.

Vinous, 91 points 
Saturated ruby. Expressive aromas of blueberry, crushed-stone minerality and violet complicated by a whiff of game; a bit Syrah-like. Juicy and suave on the palate, conveying a captivating restrained sweetness to its dark berry, bitter chocolate and mint flavors. A very sexy wine with noteworthy precision and lift. This restaurant-only bottling stands out for its refinement.

Argentina, Uco Valley
100% Malbec
14% Alcohol

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Bottles are in perfect condition.