VINEYARD
Our 2020 Best Barrels Malbec is
comprised of 89% Malbec, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot, all from select
blocks at our Blue Rock Estate Vineyard in Alexander Valley.
Atop the Blue Rock Vineyard sit three distinct blocks of Malbec. The oldest Malbec block on the estate, four steep, terraced rows comprising the ridge of our Southernmost block, and the ten rows sitting below the aforementioned steep terrace.
Winemaker's Tasting Notes
Rich and darker in color than you might expect from
Malbec, a beautiful perfume of black cherry and pomegranate, creamy milk
chocolate and a hint of meaty rusticity that Malbec lovers so appreciate are
complemented by notes of roasted coffee and sweet pipe tobacco. The wine tastes
exactly like it smells, with flavors to match all those aromas perfectly. Silky
smooth, with wonderful balance and mouthfeel. While a recognized companion to
the other Bordeaux varietals, Malbec tells a story all its own and this is a
wonderful rendition to savor when you need something special. We have been
enamored of this wine since fermentation began and could not be happier with
the final blend. If only we had more of it!
Food Affinities
Smoky and spice-rubbed red meats are natural match with Malbec.
Grilled lamb chops or a nice sirloin come to mind. Vegetarian options include
blue cheese souffle and farro-stuffed roasted red pepper with olive oil.
Ageability
You can readily enjoy this right now with about an
hour of decanting and count on it to age well for another decade or longer in
your cellar.
Technical Data
Alcohol: 14.6%
45% New
French Oak
22 Months in Barrel
Cases
Produced: 75
Bottled: January2023
