Benegas Estate Single Vineyard Malbec 2021Part of the story of this tremendous, historic producer is its gentle evolution into the modern era. This cracking Malbec comes from Benegas plantings in their own Finca La Encerrada vineyard in Gualtallary, Uco Valley, at 1,450 MASL. Floral and mineral aromatics typical of this area mingle with impressive black fruit concentration in a wine that is big and polished, yes, but ultimately fresh and very finely judged with just 6 months in second use

The palate is bright and focused

The chances are it didn't originally contain a wine this good

terroir-driven wines that showcase the best of California’s Central Coast

This dedication is reflected in their careful selection of plots prior to planting and the gentlest vineyard management practices

a very interesting wine that matches well with a host of foods

nutmeg and Parma violets

with tar and earthy notes

Planted traditionally with 55% Cabernet Sauvignon

or pair with the tradition Catalan escalivada - a smoky grilled pepper salad topped with anchovies

In contrast to the often blocky and tannic wines from Ribera

The 2023 White Blend is 76% Sauvignon Blanc and 24% Sémillon

Michael Cruse came to winemaking from a background in science