Miraflores Winery, El Dorado (Sierra Foothills, California) Malbec 2017

 Miraflores Winery was founded in 1998 by Dr.Victor Alvarez and produced its first wines in 2003.  After initially planting Syrah and Zinfandel, the owner expanded the high elevation vineyard in Pleasant Valley which today covers 45 acres planted to 16 varieties.   Malbec is among those varieties and this 2017, blended with 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc, is beautifully made.  Packed with dark fruits and fleshed out with spices, black pepper and licorice, it is rich but smooth and seamless.  Though aged for 19 months in 34% new oak barrels, the bright berry fruit and light, refined tannin keep the oak well in the background.