Susana Balbo Signature Malbec 2016 (750ML)

92 Points, Luis Gutierrez, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate: "There are some spicy and smoky aromas in the 2017 Susana Balbo Signature Malbec, which matured in oak barrels, 30% of them new, the rest second use, for 13 months. It comes from Altamira and has some 6% Cabernet Sauvignon. There are notes of ripe berries, blackberries and a touch of toast. It has flavors of creamy oak, herbs and ripe fruit. They have been lowering the oak in this range, but it's still oakier than the BenMarco range. 100,000 bottles produced." 10/19

92 Points, Stephen Tanzer, Vinous: "Bright ruby-red. More medicinal on the nose than the Signature Cabernet, showing slightly reduced aromas of black cherry and dark chocolate. Very intense and alive, with surprising acidity and sexy chalky mineral lift giving the wine terrific inner-mouth tension (the pH of this Altamira wine is a moderate 3.5--lower than that of the Cabernet Sauvignon). Finishes with suave, broad tannins and touch of charcoal. This sexy wine should age gracefully and is a splendid value. (aged for 13 months in 30% new and 70% used French oak)" 09/19

90 Points, Kim Marcus, Wine Spectator: "Notes of black olive accent the dark currant, tar and dried blackberry flavors, featuring vibrant mineral hints. The firm, savory finish lingers with slate elements. Drink now through 2024. 8,000 cases made, 6,800 cases imported." 12/19