Achaval Ferrer Malbec Reserva (75cl, 14.5%)

A 100% Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina, produced by Achaval Ferrer. The fruit comes from three zones: about 60% from Luján de Cuyo, 30% from Valle de Uco and 10% from eastern Mendoza. Vinification follows a non-interventionist protocol with no filtering, cold soaks, acid correction, bleed-offs or enzyme additions. Around 25% is kept in concrete, with the rest aged eight to nine months in neutral and well-seasoned 160- and 225-litre French oak barrels. The nose opens with bright violet and ripe plum, followed by blackberry, dark cherry and a peppery edge. The palate is juicy and fruit-forward with blackberry, spiced plum and ripe cherry, with dark chocolate and rosemary-like herbaceousness. The finish is long and elegant, with silky tannins, minerality and dried cherry.