TintoNegro Limestone Block Malbec 2012
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Robert
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The most expensive effort, but still a great value, is the 2012 Malbec Limestone Block. There are 500 cases of this wine that was aged nine months in French oak From a 4,000 foot elevation and very rocky soils, it tips the scales at a boisterous 14.5% natural alcohol. Its inky/blue/purple color is followed by a sweet perfume of crushed rock minerality, acacia flowers, blackberries and cassis as well as a hint of vanillin. This powerful, concentrated, impressively endowed Malbec should drink well for 5-7 years.
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TintoNegro, meaning “black wine” in Spanish, celebrates the essence of Malbec in Mendoza. Known for its dark, blackish color, Malbec is definitely a tinto negro. The TintoNegro portfolio explores the terroirs of Mendoza where Malbec does best, gradually isolating unique vineyard sites and winemaking techniques, and showcasing the heights of concentration and complexity to which Malbec can aspire. TintoNegro was born of the long-time friendship and professional collaboration of Alejandro Sejanovich and Jeff Mausbach, colleagues at Bodega Catena Zapata for almost 15 years. As Wine Education Director for Catena, Jeff travelled the world preaching the gospel of the unique character of high-altitude Malbec from Mendoza, explaining the character and expression of its many different terroirs. As Vineyard Director at Catena, Alejandro had extensive, firsthand experience growing Malbec in all of these terroirs, from the fruit-driven, easy-drinking style of Lujan de Cuyo to the concentrated, complex profile La Consulta. His intimate knowledge of the top vineyards in each region means TintoNegro wines are made from only the best fruit each area has to offer.
Celebrated for its bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec has enjoyed runaway success in Argentina since the late 20th century. The grape originated in Bordeaux, France, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. A French agronomist, who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. Somm Secret—If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet with its combination of dense fruit and soft tannins.
By far the largest and best-known winemaking province in Argentina, Mendoza is responsible for over 70% of the country’s enological output. Set in the eastern foothills of the Andes Mountains, the climate is dry and continental, presenting relatively few challenges for viticulturists during the growing season. Mendoza, divided into several distinctive sub-regions, including Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, is the source of some of the country’s finest wines.
For many wine lovers, Mendoza is practically synonymous with Malbec. Originally a Bordelaise variety brought to Argentina by the French in the mid-1800s, here it found success and renown that it never knew in its homeland where a finicky climate gives mixed results. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot and Pinot Noir are all widely planted here as well (and sometimes even blended with each other or Malbec). Mendoza's main white varieties include Chardonnay, Torrontés, Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon.