Bodega Colome, Altura Máxima, Malbec, Salta, Argentina, 2019 (Columé)

Overview of the Wine
Bodega Colome is nestled in the Calchaqui Valley, 2300 meters (7500 feet) above sea level, in the Argentine northwest. Founded in 1831, it is one of the oldest existing wineries in Argentina. In 2001, it was acquired by the Hess Family Estates. Those who enjoy their wines recognize in them the true taste of wines made with grapes of the highest quality and grown in the highest vineyards in the world (7218-10,207 feet above sea level) reflecting the soul of its terroir. Bodega y Estancia Colome's philosophy consists in the commitment to implement biodynamic agriculture, whose principles were outlined by the researcher Rudolf Steiner.

Vegan.

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Grape / Blend
Malbec

Origin
Cafayate, Salta, Argentina

Winemaker's Tasting Notes
The true expression of terroir in this Malbec comes from the extreme altitude at which the vineyard sits, it receives much more sun, much less UV protection, producing thicker skinned grapes that deliver a more robust mouthfeel supported by fresh acidity.

95 Points - Wine Advocate
Sourced from vines just 10 years old, planted at 3,111 meters in altitude and aged for 18 months in neutral barrique, the 2019 Altura Máxima Malbec opens with a beautifully intense, inky, herbal and coiled nose. The palate echoes with an incredibly dense, compact, concentrated mouthfeel with a bracing core buttressed with pure mineral tension. It concludes with a long, layered and subtly woody finish that lingers with additional mineral-driven nuances and balsamic flourishes. This is a superb expression from one of the highest-elevation vineyards on the planet.

94 Points - Wine Enthusiast
A powerful Malbec from a vineyard at 10,200 feet in the Calchaqui Valley. The extreme climate conditions leave their mark on the intense character of this ripe red. Aromas of bell pepper, strawberry jam and sandalwood. Toasted oak flavors invade the structured and savory palate, followed by red berries and mint. This is ready to drink now but will benefit from a few more years in the cellar. Drink-2035. — Jesica Vargas

93 Points - James Suckling
Lots of depth here, with blackberries, asphalt, wet-stone minerality and savory, roasted spice. A concentrated, brooding red with lots of ripeness, but still juicy. Wrapped by powdery and dusty tannins. If it weren’t for the hint of warmth at the end, this would have rated higher. Has potential, though. Better after 2024.

90 Points - Jeb Dunnuck
Aged already in bottle for several years, the 2019 Malbec Altura Maxima is hitting its peak, perfumed in dark fruit and leather, with a gravelly texture. Dried fruit and dried herb accent a full-bodied, concentrated, and dense palate of high acidity and moderate length.

Product size: 750ml