Is Mendoza a Malbec wine lake? So much of it coming from Mendoza in Argentina. This time we uncork a Paraje Altamira Malbec from Argentina and the label states “High Mountain Vines” but fails to advise what the altitude is. No altitude given on the Catena website either.
This purplish Malbec rested 6-8 months in 25-40% new French oak and the remainder in second and third use oak barrels. Alluvial soil with 80% sand, 10% clay and 10% silt.
Aroma: Red plum, black cherry and chocolate covered blueberries.
Palate: It is as if the wine is confident not trying to make any statement other than saying it is very good wine. Moderate tannins with a long finish. A nice little seam of cherry and rhubarb pie running through the wine.
Personality: My makers let the grapes and oak speak for themselves. Minimal human intervention and would you be dizzy if I told you the height my grapes were grown in? Well save yourself from vertigo because my altitude is bafflingly a secret!
Food Match: Turkish green beans and potatoes simmered in tomatoes, a glug of red wine, onions, garlic, cumin and cinnamon.
Cellarbility: Modest improvement through 2025.
Price: $22.95CDN.
RKS 2023 Wine Rating: 92/100. Zekun Shuai at jamessuckling.com 93.
(Catena Paraje Altamira 2021 High Mountain Vines Malbec, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Bodega y Viñedos Catena, Mendoza, Argentina, 750 mL, 13.5%).
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