2018 Zuccardi ‘Aluvional’ Gualtallary Mendoza Malbec

WA98 The intense and high-pitched 2018 Aluvional Gualtallary has finesse, which is the challenge in this very wild zone of the Valle de Uco. This is a powerful zone because of the light and the cold nights, which make it difficult to achieve elegance in the wines, but they have worked in this direction. As with other 2018s, the aromas and flavors are fully developed, so there’s more complexity, nuance and depth than in the 2017s, which ripened faster and earlier. A superb mineral Gualtallary with contained ripeness and wildness. Drink: 2022-2030.
VIN96 Zuccardi”s 2018 Malbec Aluvional (Gualtallary) from the Uco Valley was 30% aged in French oak for 12 months. A dark, vivid purple in color. The compact nose offers ripe fruit such as plum and sour cherry along with hints of jarilla and mint over an oaky backdrop. The terroir and vintage give the 2018 an almost liqueur-like tone. Juicy and potent on the palate with plenty of rich alcohol and good volume. The body increases in heft while maintaining its firm structure. The finish is pure fruit, achieving excellent balance between energy and depth. Drink: 2023-2038.
JS96 Blueberries, blackberries, violets and some stones on the nose. Orange peel, as well. It’s full-bodied with firm, silky tannins and a linear, refined finish. So gorgeous and long now, but better after 2023.