Colome Estate Malbec 2023

At 3,000 metres high, halfway up the Andes, these Salta vineyards are among the highest in the world and an ideal spot for growing seriously good Malbec. The altitude brings striking freshness, vivid dark fruit, and a fine mineral streak, all wrapped up in a wine with real structure. Aged for fifteen months in oak, it's deep and concentrated, with bold aromas of cassis, clove spice, mint, and violets. The palate is rich and powerful, packed with dark fruit, yet lifted by fresh acidity. Despite its intensity, it has a certain elegance - muscular but poised, with round, velvety tannins and a long, delicate finish. A high-altitude Malbec with real character - big, cultured, and with a touch of mountain cool..

Smoky beef short ribs or a chargrilled ribeye are spot on - the bold dark fruit and clove spice dive right into the richness, while the fresh acidity makes sure things don't get too heavy-handed.

Bodega Colomé, established in 1831, is not only the oldest working winery in Argentina but also boasts some of the world's highest vineyards. Its stellar reputation earned it a spot as one of Tim Atkin's 'First Growths' in his 2016 Argentina Report. Located in the far north of Argentina in the Upper Calchaquí Valley, it's believed to have been founded by the Spanish Governor of Salta, Nicolás Severo de Isasmendi y Echalar. In 1854, his daughter introduced the first French pre-phylloxera Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon vines to the area, planting three small vineyards whose fruit still goes into the wines today. Currently, there are 140 hectares of vineyards planted at altitudes ranging from 2,300 to over 3,000 metres. Grapes grown at such high elevations develop thicker skins to protect against intense UV rays, resulting in wines with more colour, aroma, flavour, and antioxidants.