2012 Bodegas Colom̩ "Estate" Malbec Valle CalchaquÌ_ Salta

The 2012 Malbec Estate is a blend of the three Malbecs sold separately as Lote Especial differentiating altitude and location, and it's approximately 5% from Cafayate which adds ripeness and roundness, with the backbone being from Colom̩ and representing some 70% of the blend and 25% of El Arenal. From this vintage the style and the varietal blend has changed to 100% Malbec (it used to have Tannat, Cabernet and Petit Verdot in the past) and the style is influenced because the El Arenal vineyard is increasing its production and adds freshness and tannic structure, so there is no need for the other varietals. The aging is longer than that of the separate components, but there is only 10% new oak. The very showy, open and aromatic nose is very balsamic and spicy with aromas of wild herbs, especially thyme, juicy blueberries and violets. This is a ripe Malbec with good depth, concentration and balance. Soft, but with grip that is chewy and juicy. 240,000 bottles produced. (LG)