A Mendoza Malbec that combines grapes from Perdriel, Eugenio Bustos, Luján and San Carlos, 40% aged for 12 months in used barrels. A purplish red in the glass, it offers precisely calibrated red fruit plus hints of fresh plum and raisin; white pepper and pencil box follow on behind. Moderately tense and juicy in the mouth, with mild flavors, it presents fine tannins and medium concentration. A very well-balanced red with a pleasant, cleansing finish.

The toasty and ripe 2018 Reserva Malbec has the advantage of a fresher vintage. It's a commercial effort with some notes from oak and plenty of tannins but with good freshness. It'd be better with food.

Concentrated red plum, rhubarb and pomegranate flavors are backed by fresh acidity in this crisp, direct style. Drink now.