Bodegas Colome 2017 Estate Malbec, Calchaqui Valley

Bodega Colome in the Calchaqui Valley, 7500 feet above sea level, was founded in 1831 and is one of the oldest existing wineries in Argentina. Since its acquisition by the Hess family in 2001 the quality of wines has skyrocketed. All the vineyards are farmed biodynamically and yields are kept low. Winemaking is state-of-the-art with an emphasis on grape expression as is clear in this Estate Malbec. 100% Malbec, grapes are from four different vineyards with the Colome VIneyard as the backbone. The vineyards sourced lie at altitudes from 5500 to 8500 feet above sea level. At these altitudes the grape skins thicken to protect from UV rays intensifying color and flavor in the grapes. The wine was aged 15 months in French oak barrels.


The Wine Advocate scored this 91 points saying "The 2017 Estate Malbec was quite primary and young, with the high-altitude intensity of color, aromas and flavors. It's ripe (14.9% alcohol) but nicely balanced, with varietal aromas (violets, raspberries) and integrated oak aromas and flavors. A showy Estate Malbec, a good representation of what the grape can deliver in the high-altitude vineyards of Salta."

James Suckling scored this 92 points saying "Attractively concentrated style here with aromas and flavors deep in the plum and blackberry zone. Full and firm palate. Really flavorful and bold style."