2019 Piattelli Lujan de Cuyo Grand Reserve Malbec (limited production)

February 1, 2022

Argentina is probably best known for Malbec in the wine world.  This Bordeaux grape was brought to the country in 1868 by Michael Pouget.  

Malbec is known for its very distinctive inky color, and the varietals still in France have very high tannin.  The varietals in Argentina display the vivid color, but tend to be less tannic than their cousins in France.

Many of the best Malbec wines produced in Argentina are from grapes grown at high elevations in regions like Lujan de Cuyo, on the slopes of the Andes mountains.

The Piattelli  winery sits in Agrelo, Lujan de Cuyo just outside of Mendoza.  It was founded by John and Arline Malinski and opened in 2002.  Their head winemaker, Valeria Antolin is a 4th generation winemaker and has been with Piattelli since the beginning.  She oversees the winemaking and the vineyards.  She treats each of the grapes as though it were one of her adorable boys.

This elegant Malbec has become a favorite among our guests.  In the glass, you are treated to the beautiful purple ink color that malbec is known for.  On the nose, an aroma of blueberries and plum with a hint of cocoa is delightful.  On the palate the wine is silky and smooth with complex flavors of blueberry, plum, chocolate and a hint of oak.

The wine is perfect to sip alone, but pairs very nicely with Chef Bruno Vergara's Choripan sandwich, Empanada Criollo, Pabellon plate, or Arepa Pabellon.  

As long as we can get our hands on this wine, it will surely grace our wine list.  It is not uncommon that a 3oz taste of this wine becomes a bottle for the table.

Producer: Piattelli Vineyards

Vintage: 2019

Grapes: Malbec

Region: Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina

Body: Full

Alcohol: 14.8%

Production: Produced from 70 to 100 year old vines, French and American Oak barrel aged for 12 months, bottle aged for 12 months

Awards: 92 Points, James Suckling, 4.1/5 Vivino

Why we included this wine on our list:  Beautiful example of a high elevation Argentinian Malbec.  Beautiful color, elegant drinking, a guest favorite.