Luca Old Vine Malbec 2023

Luca Old Vine Malbec 2023 is a powerful yet incredibly elegant Argentine red crafted by Dr. Laura Catena, highlighting the genetic diversity and depth of Mendoza's historic, low-yielding vines. Sourced from high-altitude, ungrafted vines (averaging over 50 years old) across premier subregions of the Uco Valley—including La Consulta, Gualtallary, and Paraje Altamira—it pours a deep, luminous purplish-red. The nose is inviting and complex, offering expressive aromas of dark plums, ripe black cherries, and wild berries, thoughtfully accented by notes of cocoa, bark, charcoal, and subtle dried herbs. On the palate, it is precise, linear, and gracefully structured, showcasing a juicy core of crunchy red and blue fruit balanced by velvety, approachable tannins and a vibrant vein of natural acidity. Matured for 12 months in a combination of new and second-use French oak barrels, it delivers a deeply refined and stylish finish laced with savory hints of espresso and bright mineral tension.

Food Pairing: Pairs magnificently with grilled venison, traditional Argentine ribeye steak with chimichurri, roasted lamb shanks, hearty pork roast, or medium-strong cheeses.

96 Points - James Suckling