Zuccardi Polígonos Paraje Altamira Malbec 2023

Zuccardi, led by third-generation winemaker Sebastián Zuccardi, makes Polígonos as a series of single-zone wines, and this Malbec comes from Paraje Altamira in the Uco Valley, high in the Andean foothills of Mendoza. Altamira is prized for its alluvial soils rich in calcium carbonate over rounded stones, and the vineyards sit at altitude where strong sun and cold nights drive a wide diurnal range. That range keeps acidity high and tannins firm while the fruit ripens, and the limestone-influenced soils lend a clear mineral, savoury edge that defines the zone. The wine is fermented and aged in concrete, with no oak, so the site speaks plainly through the fruit and structure. The colour is deep violet-red. The nose shows dark plum and red berry with black pepper, dried herbs and a stony, earthy lift. The palate is structured and precise, with firm, fine-grained tannins, dark fruit, liquorice and a long, mineral finish quite distinct from oak-driven Malbec. Serve at 17 degrees, with a decant. It suits grilled red meats, lamb and mushroom dishes.