Mendoza, ArgentinaThe thistles, or Los Cardos, are desert flowers known for their intensity of colour and super sharp thorns, but their true meaning is that of a stoplight, as in stop and plant your grapevines here. In Argentina, that is at 1050 metres above sea level on the Andes' breezy side slopes. The colour is deep, with bright blueberry, black plum, blackberry, and a long, cool, linear attack. Fresh and spicy, it's not hard to see why this is such a fun wine to pair with hamburgers, beef tacos, or even an Asian black bean dish. Ready to drink and affordable. Stock up.Tasted: 27 February 2021Tasted by: Prices:
Mendoza, ArgentinaFrom El Alto Vineyard, in Ugarteche, the southern part of
Luján de Cuyo, these malbec vines are planted at 1050m in sandy clay loams. Led by blueberries, this is flush with plums, wild blackberries, framed with a cool steeliness, to a subtly spiced finish. Tannins are long and smooth, making this a fresher, drink now malbec. Simple, well put together, and fun to drink.Tasted: 27 February 2021Tasted by: Prices:
Mendoza, ArgentinaLos Cardos is Doña Paula's impressive entry-level tier, with wines that overdeliver on their modest price tag. The focus seems to be on freshness and approachability, and that's certainly the case with this malbec. It combines juicy blueberry with some savoury spice that's true to variety and, more importantly, not trying to be something it's not.Tasted: 27 February 2021Tasted by: Prices: