2005 Colome - Malbec Estate

(includes 8% tannat and 7% cabernet sauvignon) Medium ruby. Intriguing aromas of cherry, blackberry, blood orange, violet, road tar, smoked meat and pepper; this is more syrah-like than a lot of syrahs. Quite suave and fine-grained on the palate, with nicely integrated acidity and enticing floral lift giving a juicy quality to the musky, slightly reduced flavors of blackberry, violet and smoked meat. Finishes with firm but ripe tannins and impressive length.

The 2005 Estate Malbec contains 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Tannat. It was aged for 15 months in French oak, 30% new. Purple-colored, the wine offers notes of smoke, toast, vanilla, clove, blueberry, and blackberry. Full-bodied, layered, and ripe, it has enough structure to evolve for 2-3 years. There is good concentration, fine balance, and a fruit-filled finish. It should provide pleasurable drinking through 2020. Bodega y Estancia Colome is located in the northern province of Salta at high elevation (5500- 9850 feet), possibly the highest vineyards in the world. The vineyards are biodynamically and sustainably farmed. Importer: Hess Group AG; www.bodegacolome.com

85% Malbec, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Tannat grown at 2,200-2,500 metres above sea level – 50% of the wine went through malo in French oak barrels; 75% matured in French oak for 15 months (30% new oak).  Tight, firm and smoky – could do with decanting at the moment. Tight, firmly structured and very fine grained and cool, even at 14.5%. Elegant and refined with so much more to come. (JH)