Uco Deus Malbec '22

As the most well-known, and most-planted, red grape of the Argentinian region of Mendoza, Malbec is made in so many styles, and at so many price points, that finding a good one can prove challenging. Although the grape is native to France (and most well-known from Cahors, Bordeaux, and the Loire Valley), many will argue that Mendoza—strongly influenced by the Andes and the dry, cool, yet sunny conditions there—is where it now achieves its most vibrant expression. And this is thanks to producers who have focused on producing wines that express the grape’s characteristics as well as to the vineyards where it grows.

Uco Wines Vineyard, in Paraje Altamira, in the Valle de Uco of Mendoza, encompasses 77 hectares of land, planted to a range of varieties, including, of course, Malbec. The grapes grow at 1,100 meters above sea level. The Malbec is aged in concrete egg amphora (about 3,300 liters in size) for eight months. Bottled unfined and unfiltered.

On the nose, the 2022 Malbec has aromas of dark and red cherry, blackberry, and blueberry, with notes of violets, mint, earth, and black pepper spice. Dry, deeply fruited, and round on the palate, it has moderate tannins and acidity. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a burger, or grilled portabello mushroom burger, topped with blue cheese.