Mendel Apertura Malbec 2019

Apertura is a fruitier and lighter-bodied take on classic Argentine Malbec. As the name suggests, it provides an opening into one of the country’s finest estates and a snapshot of what they’re all about. Mendel create it using grapes picked from their own vineyards in Luján de Cuyo, overlooking Sierras de Lunlunta. The barrels are tasted by the team and the fresh and easy-drinking ones become Apertura. The result is wonderfully bright and in perfect harmony. To us, it feels like the Malbec version of one of those sunny spring mornings when everything seems to be in high resolution. Expect lots of dazzling hedgerow fruit alongside notes of black cherry, raspberry, dried wildflowers and a little vanilla. A bit of a break from the Malbec norm, as this one doesn’t need to big slab of meat to tame it. Think more along the lines of pizza, tomato-based pasta, barbeques or a TV series binge.

Having worked for many years at the iconic Château Cheval Blanc in Saint-Émilion, Roberto de la Mota is one of Argentina’s most respected and experienced winemakers. In collaboration with the Sielecki family, he is the driving force behind Mendel’s world-class wines. This boutique winery is named after the father of the proprietor, Annabelle Sielecki, and focuses on two terroirs: vineyards planted in Luján de Cuyo in 1928 and a new project of old vines in Altamira.