Finca Sophenia`Anti Synthesis`Malbec 2015

Country
Argentina
Region
Mendoza
Producer
Finca Sophenia
Grape(s)
Malbec (70%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (30%)
Type
Red
Style
Spicy
Oaked Style
Oaked
Body Style
Full bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Not applicable
Alcohol Content
14%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
No
Sustainable
Yes-certified sustainable
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No

Region

The biggest and most important of Argentina`s wine regions, Mendoza includes a wide variety of altitudes and micro-climates to allow a huge range of wine styles. The main vineyard area is at the base of the Andes in the valley of the Mendoza River, with vineyards ranging from 500-1500 metres above sea level. Many early winemakers were of Italian origin and brought with them their native Barbera, Bonarda and Sangiovese. However, it is Malbec, originally from Bordeaux and the southwest of France, that has established the most successful presence in Mendoza.

Producer

The Pioneer estate winery is based in Gualtallary one of the highest districts in the Uco Valley, Mendoza at around 1200m above sea level. It was founded by Roberto Luka in 1997, naming it after his partner’s daughter Sophia and his daughter Eugenia. The sheer height means the vineyards experience abundant sun during the day and much cooler nights. This, combined with sandy and stony soils, ensures a long growing season for ripe fruit and a refreshing acidity for expressive and elegant wines that stand out. They are certified sustainable and have now been confirmed organic which will mean wines from 2023 onwards are certified.
Tasting Notes
A Malbec and Cabernet blend, the wine is aged for 12 months in new French oak. Deep and intense ruby red colour with violet dyes. Intense with great aromatic expressions and concentrated floral notes and black pepper, combined with ripe red fruits like plum and blackberry. Its long ageing in French oak gives elegant smoked notes with tobacco and chocolate. Begins sweet and generous on the palate with a long and elegant finish.
Food
BBQ cuisine, steak, sausages, rich pork and game dishes. Strong and full flavoured cheeses.
Media
94 Points Tim Atkin February 2019. 93 points James Suckling 2019.