Mendel’s 1928 Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec vineyards are located in Perdriel and Mayor Drummond, Luján de Cuyo, Argentina. They also grow Cabernet Franc, Semillon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon in their Finca Remota vineyards located in Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco. The vineyards are located between 900 and 1,150 meters above sea level.
Wiine making of this malbec includes manual berry selection at the sorting table; fermentation and maceration in 80-hectolicter tanks; total maceration time of 25 days. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for 12 months. Bottled in November 2019. Bottle-aged for at least 6 months. Price in the UK around £20.
Appearance
Deep intensity, ruby colour.
Nose
Medium intensity, primary aromas of red fruit, cherry and aromas of black fruit, blackcurrant, hint of dried herbs. Secondary aromas include oak aromas, vanilla and hints of cedar.
Palate
Dry, with medium acidity, soft medium tannins, high alcohol and full bodied, medium to pronounced flavour intensity and similar flavour characteristics as on the nose but with more black fruit, blackberry, plum. Also some spiciness, pepper. Long finish.
Conclusions
The Mendel Malbec Mendoza 2018 is a well balanced wine, with a good concentration and a long finish. Some complexity, and overall a very good wine. Should go well with steak. Decant 30 to 60 minutes before drinking. Serve the wine at 16C, and no warmer than 18C. Should keep to 2035.
