Descorchados 96 – best ever:
This is a classic malbec-based red wine that has the density of wines made to age well. 2020 was warm throughout Mendoza, and that underscores the voluptuousness of the fruit here, but the tannin structure is firm and solid, which helps support the weight of those ripe flavors and provides balance. All in all, this is a wine for the cellar. When Fabre Montmayou began making his Grand Vin, in 1993, they selected the oldest vines on the property, planted in 1908. The proportion is 85% malbec, 10% cabernet sauvignon, and the rest is merlot, all planted in Vistalba, one of the highest areas in the Luján de Cuyo DO, reaching the Mendoza River.
An even greater vintage than the one Jancis Robinson rated THE best wine of all South America – calling it “Liquid Andes Magic!” In fact, I’m going to do the whole quote – as it may be her most effusive ever:
Really quite remarkably dark purple. Thick and so Argentine and really rather lovable and gorgeous. Sweet and rich and beautifully balanced. Some lightness here – magically. This is liquid Andes magic. Heat, light, spot of water. Really quite spiritually uplifting to find a wine singing its origins so eloquently.
And keep in mind, this is for a vintage that, while outstanding, doesn’t stack up to this 2020!
