Apartado, a high-flying Bordeaux blend of Malbec, Cabernet and Merlot, shows up only occasionally, but when it does it shines. This vintage is stunning; the black cherry and wild berry flavors are lively and honest, while the wine’s structure is just where it should be. With a juicy steak or lamb chops, this wine will bowl you over.
— M.S.
(5/1/2008)
A delicious, deeply fruited wine that’s packed with meaty aromas, a hint of iodine and some sweet perfume. The palate is defined not by individual fruit flavors but a wholeness and lushness that you can’t ignore. Overall it’s perfectly balanced and rewarding to drink; a stellar Malbec at an affordable price. Editors’ Choice. —M.S.
— M.S.
(5/1/2003)
Oaky, creamy and a bit lactic on the nose, with an easy style to the palate and ripe, sweet flavors of blackberry and black cherry that are delicious but lack complexity. Finishes big, syrupy and sweet, with a spot of raisin. Really good for a blend of Malbec, Cabernet and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2013.
— M.S.
(3/1/2011)
Winemaker Mariano Di Paola has a way with La Consulta-area Malbec. His are structured, tight when young, and elegant when they hit three years in bottle. This youngster is full of pop and color. It’s true Malbec, with broad shoulders, layered fruit and a toasty, full finish. A drink-or-hold type, and not expensive for what you’re getting.
— M.S.
(7/1/2004)
The polar opposite of boring, this lovely blend offers aromas of mint, herbs, flower petals and sandalwood. The palate, meanwhile, is all about pure, robust blackberry and plum. It’s a chunky, rich wine with a bit of burnt toast on the lusty finish. Thorough and textured. A bona fide winner. Imported by Billington Imports.
— M.S.
(6/1/2006)
This blend of Malbec, Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah is smooth and leafy, and one whiff tells you it’s well crafted. The palate features some high-toned red fruit, while the finish is soft and smooth with full tannins.
— M.S.
(5/1/2003)
Yet again this relatively affordable wine shows the charms and potential of Argentinean Malbec. It has a beautiful color and full, fruity aromas. The palate runs a bit snappy and upright, with cherry-based fruit that will go great with any type of grilled or braised meat. Clean, ripe and tasty, with the slightest bit of perky acids. Imported by Billington Imports.
— M.S.
(4/1/2006)
The label stresses that the wine comes from a single vineyard in the La Consulta subregion of Mendoza. That said, what’s in the bottle is fine juice, with cinnamon, red licorice and blueberry aromas and flavors. The fruit is high-end and amplified by zesty acidity. Very much the mode in terms of new-wave Argentine Malbec.
— M.S.
(12/1/2003)