A rich red, with ripe layers of linzer torte, plum pudding and fig paste flavors backed by layers of mesquite, olive paste and grilled herbs. Grippy tannins add weight to the long, vibrant finish. Drink now through 2013. 75,000 cases imported.
91 points - Wine Spectator (October 15, 2011) #58 Top 100 of 2011
The 2009 Catena Malbec was aged in 35% new French and American barriques for 14 months. Balsam wood, earthy minerals, spice box, lavender, and black cherry aromas compose the wine’s inviting bouquet. Spicy and savory in the glass, with ample black cherry and black raspberry flavors, this nicely proportioned Malbec is an outstanding value meant for drinking over the next 4-5 years.
91 points - The Wine Advocate (December 2011)
(aged in 70% French and 30% American oak, about 35% new): Bright ruby-red. Blackberry, redcurrant, licorice, violet and pepper on the nose, plus a whiff of game. Creamy, concentrated and sweet, with a seamless texture to the high-toned blackberry and saline flavors. Offers a thickness of texture and a well-judged sugar/acid balance. Finishes quite long, with very suave tannins.
91 points - Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar (Mar/Apr 12)
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