Medium ruby. Pure aromas of black cherry, licorice and mint. Juicy and bright, with pungent, well-integrated acidity framing the fairly intense black fruit fla vors. Finishes with light tannins and good length. In tex ture and weight-and lack of oak influence-this reminded me of a cross between dolcetto and barbera. And not a bit rustic for bonardaMalbec was first brought to Mendoza in the 18th century by French immigrants. It proved to be a much better variety than Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot in this dry, high altitude area. The enormous amount of sunlight in Mendoza gives Malbec full and complete ripeness in the skins and fruit - yielding dark and deep wine.

Altos Las Hormigas Malbec is a blend of estate and purchased fruit. The estate fruit is from Lujan de Cuyo township in Mendoza. This "Primera Zona" is regarded as the finest part of Mendoza, the vineyards are over 800 meters in elevation, the Malbec is exposed to great temperature swings between day and night which produces deep, complex wines. The purchased fruit is from the Val de Uco area that is Mendoza's highest - at 1000 meters. Here the Malbec has firmer acidity and is fantastic to blend with as it preserves freshness and natural acidity in the wine.