2022 Achaval Ferrer Malbec, Mendoza

Rich and seductive, with bramble fruit, dried flowers and a touch of ink on the nose. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, featuring firm yet pleasant tannins. The fruit is rich but restrained, with a chiseled, precise structure. Delicious. Drink now.

92 points jamessucking.com

Drawn from old vine parcels across Mendoza, this Malbec helped establish Achaval Ferrer as one of Argentina’s modern benchmarks. The estate works high altitude vineyards where intense mountain sunlight and cold Andean nights concentrate flavour while preserving freshness. Achaval’s philosophy has always centred on low yields and vineyard precision, aiming to express site rather than chase simple power. Even in the entry Malbec, there is a sense of structure and clarity that reflects that discipline.

Winemaking is sleek and exact. Fermentation is tuned for purity and fine tannin, and oak is integrated carefully to frame the fruit without dominating. The style is generous but controlled, combining richness with lift.

Deep violet in colour, the aromas open with blackberry, plum and blueberry layered with violet, cocoa and gentle spice. The palate is full bodied and velvety, with dark fruit wrapped in ripe tannins and balanced acidity. Flavours of black cherry, chocolate and savoury notes run long through a smooth, persistent finish.

It pairs beautifully with grilled steak, lamb, roasted vegetables and hearty dishes. Drinking impressively now, it will cellar comfortably for eight to ten years, developing earthy complexity.