The 2014 Malbec Pizzella Vineyard is from Altamira. The vineyard was originally 17 hectares and the owner planted an additional 12 (and is planting yet more), so there is room to grow. This is the most harmonious, elegant, and at the same time backward, of the three single-vineyard Malbecs. Not as showy as the others in the palate either as the tannins are austere and the chalky minerality sticks to your teeth. The differences between the three Malbecs is clear as they each reflect where the grapes grow. The riper, warmer one from Ugarteche, the fresher, higher acidity wine from Tupungato and the one with more depth from here (Altamira). It should be readily available, as some 180,000 bottles were produced in 2014. Superb value!

Smoky, woody blackberry aromas are also minty and leathery. This feels grabby and tannic, with tough flavors of red plum and raspberry. Oaky char, black pepper and bitter notes come up on the finish.