The 2019 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Gualtallary is a captivating red wine from Argentina's renowned Mendoza region. With a deep red color that reflects its intensity, this wine is a true gem for Malbec enthusiasts. On the nose, it exudes an aromatic bouquet of violet, hibiscus, oyster-shell, and hot-stone notes, layered with an intriguing hint of gaminess and wet earth. The black and blue fruit aromas are enveloped by a sense of freshness and vitality.
On the palate, this wine reveals its true power and density, offering a full-bodied experience that is both rich and structured. There is a notable volume and succulence, accompanied by a fine austerity that adds complexity and intellectual appeal. The mouthfeel is dense, showcasing the wine's excellent structure and fine-grained tannins. It is a wine that demands patience, as it will fully unwind itself with time. The experts suggest that the best enjoyment of this wine will be achieved from 2025 onwards.
Renowned wine critic James Suckling awarded this wine an impressive score of 95 points, praising its dense and powerful character and its puristic and intellectual nature. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also bestowed a remarkable score of 97 points, highlighting the wine's expression of its unique terroir in Gualtallary. The vibrant and expressive nature of this wine is complemented by its lively palate, effervescent acidity, and elegant yet firm tannins.
The 2019 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Gualtallary is a true reflection of its origin. It hails from specific soils in the Cerros del Jaboncillo, where the limestone and caliche contribute to the wine's structure and wilderness. The winemakers take great care in the production process, fermenting the grapes in small concrete vats with indigenous yeasts. Eighty-five percent of the wine is matured in untoasted 3,500-liter French oak foudres for 20 months, while the remainder is kept in concrete.
With only 10,000 bottles filled in January 2022, this wine is a limited and exclusive offering. It is a wine that speaks of its birthplace and showcases the unique characteristics of Gualtallary. The wine's complexity, depth, and balance make it a delightful choice for wine connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed now or aged for the future, the 2019 Altos Las Hormigas Malbec Gualtallary promises a memorable and rewarding experience.