2014 Vina Cobos Malbec

I saw a big jump in quality in the 2014 Cobos Malbec Marchioli Vineyard. This was also sourced from the Marchiori estate vineyards in Perdriel in Luján de Cuyo, but here they selected the oldest vines, believed to be older than 80 years of age. The wine matured in brand new French barriques for 18 months after fermenting in stainless steel with indigenous yeasts. They have now taken a long-term lease of the vineyard and they manage it organically, since 2016, so they expect to see changes in the quality of the fruit starting with the 2017 vintage. This is beautifully perfumed, with tons of violets that jump out of the glass and grab you by the throat, with some sweet spices and just a hint of smoky toast. The oak is remarkably well integrated, and even if the wine is powerful, it has contained ripeness and feels much better focused, precise and balanced than in past vintages. This has the powerful character of Luján, especially when compared with the new Chañares. 4,680 bottles were filled in November 2015.