2004 Mendoza Malbec Horizontal Tasting

2004 marks the third very good year in a row for Argentine Malbecs. While it does not equal 2002, the best vintage in a generation, it seems to be on a par with 2003. We conducted a non-blind horizontal tasting of Mendoza Malbecs, all purchased from CBM Newington.

Bodega Lurton Reserva Mendoza, $10: Everyone scored this one lowest. Some slightly unpleasant vegetative aromas. Lacks balance. Rating: C

Bodega Budini Mendoza, $10: For the price, this one is a good value. Nice fruit and some vanilla notes. Rating: B-

Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Mendoza, $16: This one came near the top of most people's list. Nice color. A smooth drinking wine with lots of fruit, toasted oak, and vanilla. Rating: B+

Michel Torino Don David Reserve Cafayate, $17: Divided opinion on this one, with some giving it top honors and others unimpressed by it. Lots of black currant. Perhaps a little out of balance (hot). Rating: B-

Mauricio Lorca Opalo Vistaflores Vineyard, $17: Everyone definately had this one rated in the top half. This one is unoaked, so the Malbec character really comes through. Smooth and fruity. Some vegetative notes in the aroma. Rating: B

La Posta del Vinatero Angel Paulucci Vineyard, $16: Another one with divided opinion. Drier than some of the other offerings. Smooth with some candied fruit in the nose. Wine Spectator gave this one an 88. Rating: B

Vina Dona Paula Lujan de Cuyo, $12: The winner. Many people rated this number one, and at this price, it's a great value. Big fruit, chocolate, coffee. Wine Spectator gave it an 89. Rating: A--

Dominio del Plata BenMarco Mendoza, $25: Again, divided opinion. Good berry fruit and mineral notes. Slightly hot. For the price, we expected a little more. Wine Spectator gave it a 90. Rating: B++