2008 Luca Malbec
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Tasting notes
Good b right, deep ruby. Expressive nose offers blueberry, cassis, violet, pepper, licorice and menthol. Sweet, creamy and deep, with a chewy texture to the blueberry and dark chocolate flavors. A weighty style but kept fresh by strong underlying acidity. Finishes with plush, ripe tannins and a lingering chocolatey sweetness.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Jay S Miller, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Malbec spent 12 months in 60% new French oak. It is a glass-staining opaque purple color with an enthralling perfume of sandalwood, Asian spices, lavender, black cherry, and plum. On the palate this concentrated effort admirably combines power and elegance. Smooth-textured, spicy, and rich, it will evolve for 2-3 years and offer prime drinking from 2011 to 2023. Luca is the personal project of Laura Catena, M.D., daughter of Argentina pioneer Nicolas Catena. The Chardonnay, since its inception, has always over-delivered, offering competition to the likes of Kistler, Peter Michael, and Aubert at less than half the price. Importer: Vine Connections, Sausalito, CA; tel. (415) 332-8466