I was truly impressed with the nose of the 2011 Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino, a blend of grapes from Adrianna (Gualtallary) and Nicasia (Altamira) vineyards in the Uco Valley. Even if the grapes are sourced from the same vineyards as the Adrianna and Nicosia bottling, this wine is quite different. Here the plots are selected from the granitic parts that give it a different, austere texture. There is a seamless granularity with the tannins that go in a straight line, and keep going and going. Super! 11,000 bottles were filled. - Luis Gutierrez

This come from two vineyards in the Uco Valley, one in La Consulta at 3,600 feet, the other in Gualtallary, 1,000 feet higher. And as is typical of this bottling, it defies the concept of malbec as a soft and gentle grape. Here strong tannins bind to imposing acidity, creating a powerful red that will need years to resolve. However, the fruit is so lovely in its ripeness and depth that it’s hard not to succumb to the temptation to open this now with an aged Manchego. Your decision.

Cellar Selection. Dry oak, black fruit and floral notes suggestive of violet are the aromas that set off this tannic, clamping, deeply structured Malbec. Flavors of mocha, maple, savory blackberry and roasted plum end with a mix of creaminess and strapping tannins. Drink through 2025.