2016 J. Davies Malbec (1 x 750 mL)
The Malbec grape was first planted on the historic Schramsberg Diamond Mountain property in 1998. Since that time, a total of five small blocks, totaling a mere 2.7 acres of planted vines, have been designated to the Malbec grape. Initially unsure of how Malbec would fit into the still wine program, it quickly become a winemaker favorite and has been used as a blending component in every vintage crafted of the J. Davies Estate Cabernet Sauvignon. The five Malbec blocks are spread across the propertys 41 acres of planted vineyards, ranging from 500 ft. up to 1,000 ft. in elevation, and featuring an array of volcanic soils. The vines on the property produce low-yielding grape clusters, with juice that has delicious balance and intense rich flavors. This breadth of varying soils, elevation, sun exposure and concentrated flavors provides the winemaking team the ability to produces a deep range of barrel lots from which all of the J. Davies Estate wines are crafted.
The 2016 vintage was a near-perfect growing season with ideal weather condition throughout. Thanks to a relatively steady and mild July and August, and then a series of warm days at the end of the growing season, vineyards were able to progress to perfect ripeness for the light yields that were present.
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Tasting notes
Aromas of red plum, cinnamon and milk chocolate are accentuated by blueberry and violet. The juicy entry of black plum, black raspberry and baking spice is infused with hints of black pepper and mocha, and is sustained by resolved tannins.- Winemakers Sean Thompson, Celia Welch and Hugh Davies
Reviews
93 PointsA pure 100% expression of the grape from the producers estate, this wine is brawny in black fruit, leather and bittersweet chocolate. Offering length and breadth, it is soft, well-integrated and chalky in tannin, with a lasting note of dried herb and tobacco.- Wine Enthusiast (March 2020)
92 Points
The 2016 Malbec is also outstanding and reveals a deep purple color as well as ample blueberry fruits, spring flowers, and lots of earthy minerality. This medium to full-bodied, balanced, and undeniably delicious Malbec is ideal for drinking over the next 7-8 years.- Jeb Dunnuck (January 2019)
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