Manos Negras Stone Soil Malbec 2021

‘Manos negras’, meaning ‘black hands’, refers to the belief of owners Alejandro Sejanovich and Jeff Mausbach that ‘real winemakers get their hands dirty – hands black with wine’. From Paraje Altamira in the Uco sub-region of San Carlos, Stone Soil is the product of a selection of vines planted on a stretch of stony soil, notable for its white calcium carbonate-covered stones. Whole berry fermentation with natural yeasts, matured 12 months in 20% new French oak barriques. Amanda Barnes: Nice floral notes opening on the palate, good brightness and approachability. Lots of energy and tension, lovely for the price. Madeleine Stenwreth, MW: Vibrant, with intense ripe forest fruit, floral notes and spice. Alive and full of fruit, it requires a bit of time to open up in the glass. Dirceu Vianna Junior, MW: Gorgeous fruit, and a modern reductive character, youthful but with great energy. Fresh and just lovely: drink. Drinking window: 2024-2030. Score – 95. (decanter.com, May 15, 2024)