I popped in here while in the area for a friend's wedding in Pleasanton. It's apparently owned by a Wente. I'd say that shows in both the large and welcoming hospitality center and great views as well as the quality in the winemaking.
This was my top wine of the flight, which is something, as I rarely seek out Malbec.
Now a month afterf the visit, I popped the cork.
A layered nose greets with aromas of nearby humidor, cracked peppercorns, spice, new leather and wood. The fruit on the nose leads to spiced plum with added cassis, mulberry jam and blueberry compote. Really lovely, lifted aromatics.
It has bright acidity focused initially on red currant and red candied plums. There is a streak of oxidation giving a bit of flabbiness in the verve of the acid which leads the palate into rich, candied fruit compote of dark berries, currants and plum. There are warm baking spices and hints of black and white pepper. Almost a suggestion of cumin. Some hints of green herbs act to nicely balance out the rich, almost unctuous fruit.
Well suited to a big red meat meal with some big flavors and seasoning. Thankfully it retains some smacky acidity through the finish to keep things in line. Tasty, teetering on rich. Just stops before becoming cloyingly fruited.
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