Zuccardi Aluvional Altamira 2018

Altamira is one of the most respected sites in the Uco Valley, and Familia Zuccardi gives it a dedicated Malbec under the Aluvional label, which isolates single parcels rather than blending across villages. The vineyards grow on deep alluvial soils rich in limestone and rounded river stones, ground that drains freely, restrains the vine and lends the wine a chalky minerality. Altitude and the wide gap between warm days and cold nights extend the ripening period, holding fresh acidity and deep pigment in the fruit. Concrete is used for fermentation and ageing in place of oak. The neutral material rounds the wine through gentle, slow contact with air while leaving no wood flavour, so the expression is driven by soil and grape. The colour is deep cherry red. The nose offers plum, dark cherry and violet over crushed stone, with notes of liquorice and pepper. The palate is structured and linear, the tannins fine and persistent, the finish saline and long. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted while young. It pairs naturally with grilled red meat, game and earthy autumn dishes.