89POINTS
16¼/20
Culmina Family Estate Malbec 2020
Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe malbec comes off two Golden Mile vineyards Arise & Stan’s Benches. After fermenting, it spends 16 months in all French oak, with 30% new and 70% used one- and two-year-old barrels. The attack is fragrant and savoury, with bright acidity and well-integrated tannins. This year, the palate is more red fruit mixed with licorice, tea and mineral notes. The winery has always worked hard with food and wine pairings. In 2020, they suggest black pepper, malbec-braised pork shoulder, or aged cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or Manchego. The fruit set was low in 2020, leading to below-average yields, but the resulting grape quality was high. Drink or cellar through 2028.Tasted: 29 October 2023Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:BC | $42.00 | 750ml | winery online/direct, select private retailers |
Grape: MalbecUPC: 827413001048