Altos Las Hormigas Paraje Altamira Malbec 2017 (750ML)

95 Points, Luis Gutierrez, Wine Advocate: "The captivating 2017 Malbec Appellation Altamira has been produced with grapes from the same vineyard since 2015, next to the neighboring vineyard where they have now planted their own grapes. It's tremendously expressive and aromatic, and it seems to transcend the vintage. They couldn't make the wine in 2016 because of the adverse conditions, but they came back really strong with this 2017, which has a chalky texture and a dry, austere and long finish. Really very good." 10/19

92+ Points, Stephen Tanzer, Vinous: "Dark ruby. Ripe aromas of blackberry, violet and chocolate are energized by a chalky element. Rich and densely packed, conveying some very ripe notes but still with impressive saline energy in the middle palate. Classically dry and fine-grained, with a hint of leathery rusticity giving the wine a distinct Old World quality. Still quite tight and chalky in the mouth, with accents of oregano, thyme, sage and flowers contributing to the impression of sharp definition. Finishes with a firm dusting of tannins and rising salty length. Give this wine at least a couple more years in the cellar before pulling the cork." 09/19