SOLD OUT! When was the last time you came across a 92 point-rated Malbec for less than $15? I’d say it’s been awhile huh? Wait until you try the 2017 Altosur Malbec from Argentina’s Finca Sophenia.
I’ve long been a fan of the wines from this family owned estate, and the new release of their “entry level” Malbec is fabulous. Rated 92 points by James Suckling and 90 points by the Wine Advocate, it’s the Malbec deal of the year.
2017 Finca Sophenia Altosur Malbec
92 points James Suckling, 90 points Wine Advocate
SOLD OUT
I’ve been a fan of the wines of Finca Sophenia since they first launched in the United States. Prior to opening the store, I worked with the wholesaler/importer that first brought the wines into the states. I immediately recognized the impeccable quality to price ratio the wines offered, and now some 15 years later, the wines are recognized as some of Argentina’s finest. I totally get it. Winery founder and owner Roberto Luka is quality-driven from top to bottom — translated, he puts the same care and attention into his lower priced wines as he does into his premium offerings.
What does that mean? It means 100% estate-grown fruit, hand harvesting of grapes, and aging in REAL oak barrels (no oak chips here). And the finished wine easily competes with Malbecs that sell for 2 to 3 times the price. It opens with beautifully pure and ripe aromas of plum, blueberry, dark cherry, violet, and oak spice. On the palate, it’s sweet and round, with plush tannins and mild acidity. Overall, it’s a wine of good intensity, full concentration, and a long finish.
That’s what I have to say, but here’s what the critics said. James Suckling said, “This shows florals and dried red cherries but there’s also lots of blueberry, spice box and eucalyptus character as well as ash and tar. Medium body, fresh acidity, fine tannins and a minerally finish. Drink now.” And Luis Gutierrez of the Wine Advocate said, “The juicy and fresh 2017 Altosur Malbec has moderate alcohol and good acidity, a constant across the wines from Sophenia. This is always young and perfumed after a few months in contact with oak staves.”
What more could you ask for in a wine at this price? It’s a great deal at $11.99/bottle — take it to your next dinner party. You’ll blow your guests away, and they’ll think you spent $20+. Stop by and pick some up soon — it will go fast. Until then, cheers to happy drinking and eating in Asheville.
Josh Spurling
Owner, Operator, Wine Monger
Table Wine Asheville