# Achaval Ferrer Malbec Mendoza (2024)

- **Producer:** Achaval Ferrer
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Malbec
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.0%
- **Average price:** €21
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, black plum, violet, vanilla, cloves, leather, tobacco, earth

## About this wine

Achaval Ferrer Malbec Mendoza is a red wine produced by Achaval Ferrer in Mendoza, Argentina, from 100% Malbec grapes. The winery, founded in 1998 by friends, focuses on creating terroir-driven wines by respecting old vines and employing minimal intervention. This particular Malbec is a blend sourced from various sub-regions within Mendoza, including Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, aiming to express the quintessential character of the region. The 2024 vintage is not yet available, but previous vintages highlight a commitment to sustainable farming and low yields from ancient vines.

## Interesting facts

- Achaval Ferrer uses centennial, own-rooted vines, a rarity in modern viticulture.
- Yields are kept exceptionally low, around 2.5 tons per acre, for maximum fruit concentration.
- The winery practices minimal intervention, avoiding filtering and acid adjustments.
- This Malbec is a blend from multiple key terroirs within Mendoza.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-plus body and fine-grained tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats and game. Its vibrant acidity can cut through fatty components, while the fruit-forward character harmonizes with savory herbs and spices often found in these dishes.

## Wine making process

Achaval Ferrer Malbec Mendoza is produced using a philosophy of minimal intervention. Grapes are fermented in cement tanks with regular pumping over for extraction. The wine undergoes aging for approximately 9 months in used French oak barrels. Winemaking practices strictly avoid filtering, enzyme additions, or acid correction, aiming to preserve the natural character of the Malbec and its Mendoza origin. The winery emphasizes sustainable farming and the use of very old vines with naturally low yields.