Argentina Wine Guide.com

Chakana Reserve Malbec 2004

Bodega

Range

Wine

Vintage

Origin

Price

Chakana

n/a

Reserve Malbec

2004

Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza

AR$39 (US$13)

Appearance

Deep bright ruby red with violet hues.

Nose

Plums, cherries, raspberries, floral violet notes, with complexities of almonds, vanilla, nutmeg and pencil shavings.

Palate

Medium body. Cherries and plums dusted with a little nutmeg. Bright and fresh, though not overly acidic, suggesting crisp but juicy red apples. Hints of pencil shavings and caramel. Tannins are soft and round, contributing to a reasonable length of finish.

Overall

A bright, elegantly balanced and satisfying Malbec that demands a second glass, followed by a third. Aged 12 months in oak (50/50 French and American - current vinatges use a 90/10 ratio), though the restrained oak character and remaining freshness of the fruit suggests predominantly second-use. Great wine and good value, but outshone for value and (arguably) character by the non-reserve version.

****

(November 06)