2023 Bleasdale Generations Malbec, Langhorne Creek

This is just hitting its straps. Easy to get into, as it offers all the archetypal flavours and more. Appealing fresh tobacco and warm bitumen aromas come through, while flavours of dark plums and black cherries are doused in licorice, woodsy spices and choc-mint. It’s a fuller-bodied but not big wine. There’s a certain restraint and elegance to this, and that’s a word not often used for this bolshie variety, such is the Bleasdale way. This has youth on its side so it’s bright and easy. In time it will garner more complexity. Can you wait?

95 points Special Value Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Bleasdale Generations Malbec from Langhorne Creek is a rich, expressive and beautifully structured red that pays tribute to one of Australia’s oldest family wineries. Established in 1850 by Frank Potts, Bleasdale has been run by six generations of the Potts family, each continuing the legacy of crafting honest, characterful wines from this historic region. Malbec has long been a house specialty at Bleasdale, and the Generations bottling represents the pinnacle of their work with this variety — bold, generous and deeply rooted in Langhorne Creek’s heritage.

The fruit is sourced from mature vineyards along the Bremer River, where the combination of ancient alluvial soils and cooling breezes from Lake Alexandrina allows Malbec to ripen fully while maintaining freshness. The grapes are picked at optimal ripeness, then fermented in small open vats to enhance colour and structure. After gentle pressing, the wine is aged in a mix of new and seasoned French oak for around eighteen months, building depth and refinement without overwhelming the vibrant fruit.

In the glass it shows a deep purple crimson hue. The nose is lifted and perfumed, offering aromas of blackberry, dark plum, violet and cocoa with hints of spice and cedar. On the palate it is full bodied and plush, with layers of black fruit, dark chocolate and graphite framed by velvety tannins and balanced acidity. The finish is long and savoury, carrying notes of black cherry, mocha and subtle oak spice. It is a Malbec of power, balance and polish — a true reflection of Bleasdale’s skill and the generosity of Langhorne Creek.

Bleasdale Generations Malbec is a perfect match for grilled ribeye, roast lamb, venison or slow cooked beef. It also pairs beautifully with mushroom risotto or hard cheeses. While approachable in its youth for its plush fruit and soft texture, it will reward cellaring for ten to twelve years, developing greater depth and complexity with age.