This Malbec from the San Juan region of Argentina is powerful, and balanced. The nose shows blueberry, plum, dried cherry, lots of fragrant violet and mint tones, vanilla, white pepper, anise, cigar box, and a bit of coffee and earth. In the mouth this wine is intense and full-bodied, with generous ripe blueberry and plum contrasting with rich dark chocolate, and the other aromas repeating but taking a lesser role. The alcohol is high (14.5%), and there is mild volatility, but the medium high acidity and slightly grippy tannins keep thing balanced. The finish is long and chocolate-tinged. Just plain tasty. Pair with gourmet burgers or even steak. Tasted Nov. 2016.