Experience the refined elegance of Salentein Malbec Reserva, a premium wine crafted in the prestigious Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina. This Malbec dazzles with an intense deep red hue and violet highlights, unveiling rich aromas of blackberry, plum, and subtle hints of cocoa, tobacco, and sweet spices. Aged in French oak barrels, it delivers a full-bodied profile with velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, smooth finish that harmoniously blends ripe fruits and spice. Perfectly versatile, it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, lamb ravioli, or pork tenderloin. At 14.5% ABV, this award-winning wine offers a sophisticated taste of Argentina's finest winemaking traditions.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the renowned Uco Valley of Mendoza, Salentein Malbec Reserva reflects the unique terroir of vineyards located at altitudes of 1,050 to 1,700 meters. This high-altitude setting provides a wide temperature range and stony soils, ideal for cultivating Malbec grapes with concentrated flavors and excellent acidity. The wine undergoes aging in French oak barrels for 12 months, imparting a subtle complexity and balance to its bold structure. The result is a well-rounded, elegant wine with 14% ABV and a persistent finish.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: A rich, deep purplish-red hue with violet reflections.
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Aromas: The nose is vibrant and complex, featuring fresh red fruits like blackberries, plums, and raspberries, accompanied by subtle floral notes, hints of cocoa, cinnamon, and a touch of black pepper.
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Palate: On the palate, expect ripe plum, dark cherry, and mulberry flavors intertwined with velvety tannins and sweet spices. The oak aging adds layers of baking spices and tobacco. A long, opulent finish ties together its balanced acidity and refined texture.
What Makes It Special
Salentein Malbec Reserva stands out for its exceptional craftsmanship and its expression of the Uco Valley's terroir. The combination of selective hand-harvested grapes, precise winemaking techniques, and aging in French oak barrels results in a wine that marries power with elegance. Its high-altitude origins contribute to vibrant acidity and intense aromas, while the careful use of oak enhances its complexity without overpowering its natural fruit-forward character.
How to Enjoy
Pair this wine with dishes that complement its bold and balanced profile:
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Red Meat: Grilled rib-eye steak, lamb chops, or beef tenderloin.
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Rich Sauces: Pork medallions with plum reduction or beef stew with caramelized onions.
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Barbecue: Perfect for smoky flavors, including ribs and char-grilled vegetables.
For the best experience:
- Serve at 16-18°C (60-65°F).
- Decant for 30 minutes to allow its vibrant aromas and flavors to fully develop.
Indulge in Salentein Malbec Reserva as the centerpiece of a fine meal or as the elegant companion to special moments. This wine offers a journey into the heart of Argentina's winemaking heritage, perfectly capturing the beauty of the Uco Valley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary tasting notes of Salentein Malbec Reserva?
Salentein Malbec Reserva offers aromas of cinnamon, pink pepper, and ripe black fruit such as plums and blackberries. On the palate, it unfolds with flavors of ripe plum, mulberry, and sweet spices, providing a medium body and dry profile with a lingering finish.
Where is Salentein Malbec Reserva produced?
This wine is produced in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina, at vineyards located between 1,050 and 1,700 meters above sea level. These high-altitude vineyards benefit from stony soils, a wide temperature range, excellent sun exposure, and pure meltwater from the Andes, creating ideal conditions for premium wine production.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
Salentein Malbec Reserva has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 14.5%.
What is the best way to pair this wine with food?
This wine pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats such as pork, ham, and barbeque dishes. It also complements hard cheeses and rich meals, making it ideal for pairing with red meats and wild game.
How is Salentein Malbec Reserva aged?
The wine is aged for 12 months in French and American oak barrels. This aging process contributes to the wine's complex aromas and flavors, including oaky and spiced notes.
What makes Salentein Malbec Reserva unique?
The wine's distinctiveness comes from the combination of its terroir, high-altitude vineyards, and the winemaking expertise of Bodegas Salentein. The result is a balanced, expressive Malbec with vibrant fruit flavors, a polished palate, and a long finish.
What awards or recognitions has Salentein Malbec Reserva received?
The 2022 vintage of Salentein Malbec Reserva was awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast for its balance, freshness, and flavorful profile.
How should this wine be stored?
To preserve its quality, store Salentein Malbec Reserva in a cool, dark place at a consistent temperature. Ideally, it should be served at around 57°F (14°C).