Vintus

Steven Tanzer’s e-zine, Winopilia, featured Argentina’s value Malbecs for $20 or less. Tanzer explains, “Importers of wines from Southern Hemisphere countries like Argentina, Chile and South Africa often bemoan the fact that most consumers don’t understand why they should be asked to pay more than twenty bucks for a satisfying bottle of wine from these countries. Sadly, in a growing number of cases, importers here can’t justify bringing in the top bottlings from many of their most quality-conscious producers because they can’t sell them.” But when it comes to Argentina, Tanzer says, ‘this country still offers a great number of seriously concentrated and satisfying red wines, mostly from malbec, at amazingly palatable prices”. In March/April issue of the International Wine Cellar, Stephen Tanzer offered many wines that are malbec-based and rated a solid 90 points. One of the wines listed was Finca Decero’s 2011 Malbec, his notes are below! Click here to read the full piece.

“The Finca Decero 2011 Malbec Remolinos Vineyard Mendoza ($20; Vintus Wines) leads off with slightly high-toned aromas of blackberry, kirsch, bitter chocolate, violet and spice cake. It’s densely packed and smooth but also light on its feet thanks to harmonious acidity, conveying a restrained sweetness to its dark berry, licorice, violet and tobacco flavors. The finish shows smooth tannins and sneaky length.”  90 Points Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar

Wine Spectator’s Bruce Sanderson, senior editor and tasting director, blogs about his Thanksgiving trip to Buenos Aires. Sanderson describes the beautiful architecture and art that is some what reminiscent of Paris, but, he says “the sidewalks are broken and many buildings are in a state of disrepair, signs of the struggling economy.” Although inflation is expanding and is affecting Argentina’s wine producers, he still enjoyed terrific meals and fabulous wines. He mentions Aldo’s Vinoteca, Francis Mallmann’s wine-centric restaurant in San Telmo, where sommelier Matias Prezioso’s knowledge and service enhanced his experience and manager Nicolàs Cordeiro recommended Finca Decero Amano 2008! To read the full blog post, click the image below.

Francis Mallmann's Patagonia Sur features refined Patagonian fare and a good wine list to match.

Wine Advocate’s Neal Martin just published his first set of Argentinian wine reviews. At the end of his introduction, he asks what will be the next step for Argentina, talks about a new generation of leading winemakers, and names his “Twelve Most Exciting Argentinean Wines”.  Finca Decero Amano 2009 is listed among this group of top wines, as you can see below.  Click on the text of the article to read the full piece (subscription only).

Some photos from the recent Finca Decero visit!

Last week in Mendoza the Wines of Argentina competition took place, the most important and prestigious international competition for Argentine wines in the world.  This year, 734 wines were judged over 3 days by 12 top international winemakers.  Out of all the wines, 18 wines were awarded the highest “Trophy” honor, and only 3 wines in $50+ categories.  The Red Blend Trophy honor went to Finca Decero Amano 2009!

After the competition the judges held a seminar discussing the tasting, and illustrated with their explanations why Finca Decero did so well: they believe that Argentina’s wines need to reflect their regions, and that oak, alcohol and ripening need to be in balance as Argentina’s wine industry moves forward.

Finca Decero also received awards for:

• Decero Malbec 2010 won Gold (only 70 Gold winners)
• Decero Petit Verdot 2009 won Silver
• Decero Cabernet 2009 won Bronze

Inspired by a trip to Argentina, Jeff Wargo GM and Chef Christopher took to translating Francis Mallmann’s cookbook ’7 Fires’ by setting ablaze the lawns of the Eastern Yacht Club in Marblehead.  100 people packed out this funfilled event, featuring the amazing wines of Finca Decero. Below, some roast vegetables, salty cheese, lomo, chorizo, and a spit-roasted goat!