The Amalaya Malbec, a consistently good wine.
85% Malbec, 10% Tannat and 5% Syrah from the Finca San Isidro and Finca Amalaya vineyards in Salta, Argentina. 25% of the wine spends 10 months in French oak barrels and it has a residual sugar of 2.98 g/L.
The Amalaya Malbec has an SRP of $17 and is available for as low as $12. Imported by The Hess Collection Winery. Sample submitted for review.
From the bottle:
In Salta’s high desert, Amalaya vineyards begin a mile above sea level, far above the Calchaqui Valley floor. For centuries, farmers made offerings in hope for a miracle – as Amalaya translates in the local language – for a bountiful harvest. Extreme conditions stress our sustainably farmed wines, delivering fruit of intense flavor concentration and uncommon depth. Rich red fruits and a hint of spice, balanced with approachable tannins, make Amalaya enjoyable on its own or with a variety of bold dishes.
13.9% Alcohol
It’s been five vintages since we last reviewed today’s wine, although it has been a consistent choice for us when eating out as it almost always delivers — even at the ridiculous marked-up prices at most restaurants! In any case, it’s time we update our review here so we decided to check out the 2015 vintage.
The 2015 Amalaya Malbec needs a bit of air to open up but then reveals a very pleasant aroma of plum, raspberries, spice, licorice and a touch of balsamic. Taking a sip shows the wine to be smooth and tasty with lots of sweet fruit and nice touches of spice, licorice and balsamic just like the nose. It’s bit different style (more sophisticated, perhaps?) than what you find in Mendoza. The Tannat and Syrah also help to bulk it up a bit and add some complexity. The wine ends dry with a burst of licorice, spice and pepper along with long lasting sweet fruit notes. It’s consistent with the flavors all the way through from nose to finish and based on previous vintages we’ve tried it’s consistently good from year to year as well.
Looking for more great Malbec under $20? Find out more about this popular variety plus all of our recommended picks right here.
See a listing of local retailers selling the Amalaya Malbec here.
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