2023 Finca Las Moras Reserva Malbec, San Juan Argentina

Tobacco leaves, dark plums and cherry stones on the nose, with a touch of bay leaves and star anise. It’s well-balanced and medium- to full-bodied with supple tannins and a soft texture. Drink now.

90 points jamessuckling.com

Finca Las Moras Reserva Malbec is a rich, fruit-forward red from San Juan, Argentina, offering a ripe, smooth style that reflects the warmth and sunshine of this high-altitude Andean region. Finca Las Moras was founded in the early 1990s and quickly became one of Argentina’s leading producers, focusing on sustainable viticulture and expressive wines that highlight their sun-drenched vineyards. The Reserva Malbec represents a step up in concentration and structure from the entry-level wines, with carefully selected fruit and thoughtful oak aging bringing depth and polish.

The vineyards are located in the Pedernal and Tulum valleys of San Juan, where the combination of high altitude, strong diurnal temperature variation, and mineral-rich alluvial soils creates ideal conditions for Malbec. Warm, dry days ensure full ripeness, while cool nights help preserve acidity and aromatic lift. The grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness, destemmed, and fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to retain fruit purity. The wine is then matured for around 6 to 8 months in a combination of French and American oak, adding gentle structure, spice, and a touch of vanilla without overpowering the fruit.

In the glass, Finca Las Moras Reserva Malbec is a deep, vibrant purple. Aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and blueberries mingle with hints of violets, sweet spice, and subtle toasted oak. The palate is plush and generous, with concentrated dark fruit, soft tannins, and a smooth texture that makes it immediately appealing. A touch of spice and mocha carries through the finish, adding warmth and length.

This Malbec is an excellent match for grilled steaks, lamb chops, barbecued ribs, or empanadas. It also pairs well with hearty pasta dishes, aged cheeses, or roasted vegetables with chimichurri. While ready to drink now for its juicy, approachable style, it can also cellar for 4 to 6 years, gaining a little more savoury complexity.