Domingo Molina Malbec 2018 Yacochuya, Calchaquí Valley, Salta, Argentina 75cl

Domingo Molina’s home is the Calchaqui Valley of Salta, around Yacochuya, where vineyards climb to some of the greatest heights in the wine world. Malbec is Argentina’s calling card, and at this altitude it takes on a particular intensity that sets the northern style apart from Mendoza.

This is pure Malbec grown under fierce mountain sun, which builds deep colour and ripe fruit, while the cold nights lock in freshness and lift. The result is a Malbec that is generous and dark but keeps its balance, a style that shows what Salta adds to Argentina’s signature grape.

The 2018 vintage gave ripe, well-coloured reds in the region, and this bottling reflects that richness.

Expect a dark violet colour and an intense nose of black fruit with subtle spicy and toasted notes from oak. It is full and aromatic on the palate, with ripe tannins and a long, warming finish, the 15.5% giving it real weight, so it is best opened alongside food.

A triple gold medal winner, it is at its best with grilled steak, barbecued meats and rich, savoury dishes. If you love bold, high-altitude Malbec with plenty of colour and depth, this Salta example delivers, and it makes an interesting contrast with the softer Malbecs of the Uco Valley further south. Serve it at a cool room temperature and let it breathe for a while, as the fruit and toasty oak knit together with a little air. It is a wine for the table, generous enough to carry a hearty winter meal from start to finish.