Altos Las Hormigas Terroir Valle de Uco 2018

Altos Las Hormigas farms in the Uco Valley of Mendoza, Argentina, high in the Andean foothills near the Tunuyán river, an estate founded in 1995 around the idea that altitude and soil, more than ripeness, define great Malbec. The vineyards sit on alluvial soils with veins of calcareous limestone, and the intense high-altitude sunlight combines with cold mountain nights to give a wide diurnal swing that holds bright acidity and firm tannin while the fruit ripens. Farming is sustainable. This wine is aged 18 months in concrete vats and a further six months in bottle, with no oak. Concrete is neutral, so it adds no wood flavour, while its thick walls hold a steady temperature and allow a trace of oxygen through, softening the tannins and keeping the fruit pure and the mineral character clear. The colour is deep violet-ruby. The nose shows plum, dark cherry and red berry over cracked pepper, dried herbs, liquorice and a chalky, stony note. The palate is full bodied and firm, with concentrated dark fruit, fresh acidity, grainy tannins and a savoury, mineral finish. Serve at 16 to 17 degrees. It suits grilled beef, lamb and game.