Doña Paula, Gualtallary, Uco Valley (Mendoza, Argentina) 2019

 Part of the winery’s Altitude Series, this wine is from the estate’s Alluvial Vineyard located at 1350 meters above sea level.  At this altitude, Malbec ripens early and the Cabernet Franc is the last variety harvested.  This blend of 50% Cabernet Franc, 45% Malbec and 5% Casavecchia is aged for 16 months in French oak, 20% new.  The end result is a wine that offers the ripe plum and black cherry fruit of Malbec along with subtle tobacco leaf and pepper notes contributed by Cabernet Franc.  The rich and juicy flavors are supported by a solid framework of good acidity and light tannins.  A pleasing package overall.