2013 Alta Vista "Single Vineyard-Serenade Vineyard" Malbec Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina

The Serenade vineyard is located in Agrelo in the classical district of Luján de Cuyo where the deep soils are rich in clay, and the Malbec vines were planted in 1935. The 2013 Malbec Serenade fermented in concrete vats and matured in two-thirds new French barriques for 12 months. 4,100 bottles produced. This is the warmest and ripest of the three vineyards from Altavista, which will for sure be the favorite for many, and has heady aromas of ripe plums, smoked cured meats and something earthy, plus an umami touch—like a savory note. The palate shows abundant, earthy tannins and a serious profile, more about the soil than the fruit. (LG)

Saturated ruby to the rim. The nose shows more violet lift than the Alazarine but also a very ripe porty quality to its currant and black cherry aromas. Then quite suave on the palate, displaying lovely density but a lighter touch and a finer grain than the Alazarine. This wine, too, is fresher than its 2012 sibling. Finishes with substantial but fine tannins and lingering blackberry fruit. (ST)