Altos Las Hormigas Mendoza Malbec 2004

Argentina claims to be the fifth largest wine producing country in the world, and Mendoza is considered the best area. Mendoza is along the Chilean border, about halfway down the country's length.

Nearly 30,000 cases of Altos Las Hormigas Malbec are produced annually, 50% from Estate fruit and 50% purchased fruit. After 15 days fermentation-maceration in stainless steel, a portion of the wine goes into oak for nine months. After aging, the wine is bottled unfiltered and rests in the bottle three months prior to release. 88 points.  The color is deep opaque eggplant-crimson. The aromas are dark, nearly black expressions of blackberry, wild cherry, leather, earth, and vanilla oak. The mouthfeel is rich, chewy and tannic, with some fruit as well as acidity and a bit of pepper on the palate. The finish is dry, warming, and releases more fruit. Closure: Artificial plastic composite "cork". (A screw cap would be a plus.) Price: $10 (Nashville).  Value: Nice.

Comments

[Kai Aagaard]

Ordered/bought it because it is supposed to be healtier than most other red wines, due to tannine content and a special chemical subtance devloped during the good winemaking process (according to a renowned English scientist)
To my mind very pleasant (strong/rich), taste. Took it only as medicin for my heart, put plesantly surprised by the fine taste.

K.Aa. Norway