Ruta 22 Malbec 2010

Interrupting Violet's sunbath for my wine photography.

My sister came over last night with an enourmous bag of freshly picked apples and Ruta 22 Malbec 2010. She and her fiance had been apple picking earlier, and on the way over she stopped quickly to grab a bottle of wine. She chose Ruta 22 because she fancied the tribal inspired label, region, and liked the price even more.  Ruta 22 is a label of Dos Andes, which was founded in 1989 by a group of people passionate about discovering the best terroirs for different varietals; in order to achieve this they own numerous wineries and vineyards in several South American countries and valleys such as Maipo and Alto in Chile and Patagonia in Argentina. They have partnered with W.J. Deutsch & Sons, a leading international importer and marketer of wines and spirits in order to produce quality wines focusing on the unique terrior of the vineyards. Ruta 22 is named for RN 22, the 685 km national highway of Argentina that the producers feel captures the essence of Patagonia; rugged, fertile, full of adventure and possibility. The Patagonia Valley receives on average only one inch or rain per year, however the thermal variations provide ideal growing conditions. The constitution of the soil and climate result in less intervention the abstinence of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. The grapes for this bottling were hand-harvested, and only 30% of the wine was aged in oak for one year in order to add complexity yet still retain bright fruit flavours.

Dark garnet with red-violet highlights, after aerating aromas of cherry, earthy autumn leaves and warm oak leaped above the lingering traces of alcohol. Fruity black cherry and blackberry flavours mingled with hints of sweet vanilla in the medium body. Flinty minerals along with spicy white pepper and suggestions of dried leaves shaped the moderate finish. Although a little rough around the edges, this is a simple, pleasant glass that enjoys a meal.

100% Malbec

Patagonia
Argentina
Produced & Bottled by BGA INV N˚ N-72511 Bodegas Universo Austral Ruta Provincial, Patagonia
14.5% Alcohol
$10
Enjoy now thru 2013

*Rated 87 Points by Wine Spectator

 Rated 87 Points by Wine Enthusiast