Passion de los Andes Collection Malbec 2021

Mendoza's high altitude vineyards, sitting at 800-1,500 metres above sea level, create ideal conditions for Malbec with intense sunlight during the day and cool nights. This dramatic temperature variation helps preserve the grape's natural acidity while developing concentrated flavours like the black cherry and blueberry notes found in this 2023 vintage. The region's alluvial soils and snowmelt irrigation from the Andes contribute to Malbec's signature depth and structure.

Serve this wine at 16-18°C to best showcase its black cherry and spice characteristics. Decanting for 30-60 minutes will help soften any tannins and allow the blueberry notes to emerge more prominently. The medium body makes it versatile enough for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions, pairing beautifully with grilled meats, empanadas, or aged cheeses.

The black cherry and blueberry notes complement red meat dishes perfectly, while the spice elements make it excellent with barbecued lamb, chorizo, or spicy Mexican cuisine. Try it with dark chocolate desserts to echo the berry flavours, or pair with mushroom risotto where the earthy spice notes can shine. The wine's medium body won't overpower lighter dishes like roasted chicken with herbs.

2023 was characterised by balanced growing conditions in Mendoza, with adequate rainfall early in the season followed by dry, sunny harvest conditions. This allowed grapes to develop concentrated fruit flavours while maintaining good acidity levels. Young Malbecs like this 2023 vintage are drinking beautifully now, showing fresh fruit expression, though they can also develop more complex secondary flavours with 3-5 years of cellaring.

While this Malbec is delicious to drink now with its vibrant black cherry and blueberry characteristics, it has the structure to age gracefully for 5-8 years. During cellaring, the spice notes will integrate further and develop into more complex tertiary flavours like leather and tobacco. Store it in a cool, dark place at consistent temperature, and the medium body will evolve into something more sophisticated while retaining its fruit-forward appeal.