Susana Balbo Malbec (75cl, 14.5%)

A high-altitude Argentine Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, made by Susana Balbo Wines. Grapes are hand-harvested from vineyards at around 4,000 feet, where wide diurnal temperature shifts preserve acidity alongside deep fruit concentration. After destemming and light crushing, the must undergoes pumping over and délestage three times daily, then ages for 13 months in French oak barrels, 30% new and the rest second-use. The blend is 94% Malbec and 6% Petit Verdot. The 2015 vintage scored 97 points from Decanter. The nose opens with ripe blackberry and black cherry, moving into violet, sandalwood and a whisper of mint, with toasted vanilla and ash from the oak. On the palate, lush cassis and dark plum meet bittersweet chocolate, currant and warm baking spice, supported by firm yet silky tannins and bright acidity. The finish is long and elegant, with smoky oak, dark berry and a faint minty coolness.