Finca Sophenia Estate Reserva Malbec 2021 - Top 100 Wine Spectator

£19.95 per bottle

ABV 14.0%

Wine Spectator Top 100 wine of 2023
"Elegant and refined, showing pepper bush, mountain herb and river stone aromas amid a fresh cherry and berry core, which shows minerally richness and lengthens nicely around the core flavors and fine tannins. "

Tasting Notes
This Reserve Malbec has an intense deep red colour with violet hues and complex aromas and flavours of fresh plums and cherries with hints of violet. The high altitude of Gualtallary, means that the grapes can ripen slowly to gain more concentrated flavours but still retain some elegant acidity. After 12 months in French oak, the palate is further complimented by sweet hints of spices, cocoa and vanilla. The oak also softens the palate to create smooth velvety tannins and a lingering finish. A wine of great concentration and wonderful complexity.

Food
Grilled steak with a pepper sauce, spiced beef and Mexican dishes.

Media
91 points awarded by James Suckling and Tim Atkins and 90 points awarded by Robert Parker. 93 points awarded in Decanter South American supplement March 2020. 95 points and Gold Medal awarded in Decanter World Wine Awards 2021.

Region
The biggest and most important of Argentina`s wine regions, Mendoza includes a wide variety of altitudes and micro-climates to allow a huge range of wine styles. The main vineyard area is at the base of the Andes in the valley of the Mendoza River, with vineyards ranging from 500-1500 metres above sea level. Many early winemakers were of Italian origin and brought with them their native Barbera, Bonarda and Sangiovese. However, it is Malbec, originally from Bordeaux and the southwest of France, that has established the most successful presence in Mendoza.

Producer
The Pioneer estate winery is based in Gualtallary one of the highest districts in the Uco Valley, Mendoza at around 1200m above sea level. It was founded by Roberto Luka in 1997, naming it after his partner’s daughter Sophia and his daughter Eugenia. The sheer height means the vineyards experience abundant sun during the day and much cooler nights. This, combined with sandy and stony soils, ensures a long growing season for ripe fruit and a refreshing acidity for expressive and elegant wines that stand out. They are certified sustainable and have now been confirmed organic which will mean wines from 2023 onwards are certified.