2009 Dona Paula Estate Mendoza, Argentina Malbec-Syrah

About This Wine

Doña Paula is very particular about its vineyard sites.

It’s for that reason that Doña Paula has emerged as one of the quality leaders in Argentine winemaking. This is particularly true when it comes to that country’s famed “high-altitude vineyards.”

For its 2009 Malbec-Syrah, Doña Paula utilized estate grown grapes from the Mendoza region’s Uco Valley. Finca Alluvia is in Gualtallary, which is more than 4,400 feet above sea level. Finca Los Indios is in Altamira, about 700 feet lower — but still quite high in the world of winegrape vineyards. Sustainable agriculture practices also contribute to the quality of the finished wine.

The blend selected by the Doña Paula winemaker for 2009 was 60 percent Malbec and 40 percent Syrah, aged in a mix of first-, second- and third-use French oak barrels. “This is a very harmonious and balanced wine,” he says, “with round tannins and a long finish.” Our very particular tasting panel agrees.

About Red Blend

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:60% Malbec and 40% Syrah
• Grape Source:Uco Valley Area of Mendoza, Argentina
• Aromas & Flavors:Black Cherry, Blackberry, Plum, Pepper & Toasty Oak
• Aging Vessels:First-, Second- and Third-Use French Oak Barriques for 10 Months
• When to Drink:Now Through 2015
• Food Pairing Suggestionlamb meatballs, or prime rib au jus.

Member Ratings