Achaval Ferrer Finca Bella Vista Malbec 2019

The 2019 Malbec Finca Bella Vista was aged for 13 months in 80% new barrels. The grapes came from a vineyard planted in 1910 in an excellent position by the Mendoza River on its newest alluvial terraces, resulting in poor, stony soil. It really comes into its own in cool, mild years like 2019. Inky purple in the glass. The nose is liqueur-like initially with intense notes of ripe plum and pink pepper, followed by secondary aromas from the aging process, such as cedar and then a third wave of rose and violets arrives. Vivid, grippy and full-bodied, it has a velvety, voluminous feel with tart freshness. A smooth, delicate, flavorful wine. Drinking window: 2024-2039. Score – 96. (Joaquín Hidalgo, vinous.com, Jan. 2023)