2016 Malbec – SOLD OUT!

Tasting Notes

The nose slowly opens to share aromas of oak, cedar and tobacco woven with rich black raspberry notes. The smooth, luscious entry showcases classic flavors of cherry and blackberry layered with cigar box, mocha and hints of dried fine herbs. Though still youthful, the palate already reflects the perfectly honed balance of tannins, oak and fruit.

Vintage: 2016
Varietals: 100% Malbec
Region: Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
Production: 75 cases

Review – Ken’s Wine Guide

“This very dark ruby colored Malbec from Estate 1856 opens with a plum and red currant bouquet with hints of pencil shavings. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic and juicy. The flavor profile is a mineral influenced plum with notes of cinnamon, black tea and oak. We also detected a hint of milk chocolate and a dash of black pepper. The finish is dry and its moderate dusty tannins are sticky. The Panel suggested drinking the Malbec in the near term with a juicy burger. Enjoy – KWGTP” Reviewed March 14, 2020 Ken’s Wine Rating: Very Good (89)

Vintage Notes

Growing grapes is our passion…and having a growing season with few ups and downs keeps our blood pressure low! This 2016 season followed the previous vintages with early budbreak followed by some typical Spring showers that did not interfere with set in May and early June. The consistent weather with fewer than normal hot spells during Summer produced even ripening with great color development. August was cooler than normal allowing great hang time before harvest. We were able to harvest all of our fruit carefully…even with the season presenting several varieties ripening at the same time! Daily tasting evaluations of our wine in our fermentation tanks were consistently flavorful, giving an insight into the great wines with pure flavors!

Winemaking Notes

Our winemaking protocol demands separate small carefully temperature regulated fermentations for each varietal providing optimum treatment for our Malbec. This wine is carefully pressed direct to barrels and aged separately until rigorous blending trials the Spring before Summer bottling. Each individual barrel is tasted for uniqueness and provides an essential blend diversity that typifies our wines as well as an exceptional 22 month ageing period.

Food Pairing Suggestion

Try pairing this delicious wine with mixed sausage paella (opens in new window), or grilled lamb chops with a balsamic reduction.