# Alamos Malbec (2023)

- **Producer:** Alamos
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Malbec
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €12
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, blackberry, raspberry, red plum, violet, blackcurrant, olive, white pepper, spice, vanilla, chocolate, cloves

## About this wine

Alamos Malbec is a red wine produced in Mendoza, Argentina, primarily from Malbec grapes grown in the Uco Valley. The vineyards are situated at high altitudes, between 3,000 and 5,000 feet, benefiting from intense sunlight and cool nights, with irrigation from Andean snowmelt. The wine is part of the portfolio of Alamos, a brand associated with the historic Catena Zapata family, known for pioneering high-altitude viticulture in Argentina. The 2023 vintage was marked by frost, leading to concentrated flavors and early harvest. The 2024 vintage includes a blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Bonarda.

## Interesting facts

- Vineyards are irrigated by mineral-rich snowmelt from the Andes Mountains.
- The high altitude means intense sunlight during the day and cool temperatures at night.
- Alamos is part of the historic Catena Zapata family, renowned for Argentine wine.
- Grapes are handpicked from vineyards between 3,000 and 5,000 feet elevation.

## Food pairing

The medium body and velvety tannins of this Malbec make it a versatile partner for protein-rich dishes. Its fruit-forward character and subtle spice notes complement grilled meats and savory flavors, while its acidity can cut through richer elements.

## Wine making process

Grapes for Alamos Malbec are destemmed and crushed, followed by a cold soak for 2 to 3 days to maximize color and aroma. Fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks over 8 to 12 days, after which the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation. The 2024 vintage is aged for 6 to 8 months in French oak barrels with a medium toast. The 2023 vintage was characterized by an earlier harvest due to frost, leading to concentrated fruit. The 2024 vintage is a blend of 90% Malbec and 10% Bonarda, while the 2023 vintage is described as Malbec, with blend specifics not confirmed.