At a glance

Producer

Matias Riccitelli

Region

Los Chacayes, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina

Grape variety

Malbec

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$35-$50 USD

Tasting profile

Expressive blackberry, dark cherry, purple flowers, graphite, and subtle oak. Silky mid-palate with mineral backbone.

Evolution: Fruit tones give way to more violet, cocoa, leather, and earthy nuances. Tannins soften, acidity preserves freshness.

At peak: Balanced, complex, and integrated, with velvet texture and layered dark fruit, floral complexity, and minerality.

Structure

Acidity

Fresh, lively acidity typical of high-altitude Malbecs

Tannins

Medium to high but fine-grained

Alcohol

13.5-14.5% ABV range, balanced

Aging potential

Medium-term, can improve for 5-8 years with proper cellaring.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2028

Optimal window

2024 to 2030

Current status

Approachable now, benefits from short- to medium-term aging.

Current condition

Youthful, vibrant fruit, firm yet polished structure.

This Malbec from Los Chacayes, a high-altitude sub-appellation, excels in structure and natural acidity, permitting graceful aging. The 2021 vintage's balance and concentration will show best after a few years in bottle, peaking when fruit and maturity harmonize mid-to-late decade.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, asado, beef short ribs, mushroom risotto, hard cheeses (aged Manchego, Comté).

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium to high tannins which can benefit from aeration, allowing the flavors to open up and soften.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Matias Riccitelli employs sustainable viticulture: hand-harvesting, dry farming where possible, integrated pest management, low-intervention cellar practices, use of recycled packaging materials. Focus on biodiversity, reduced chemical use, minimal irrigation.

The Riccitelli estate is recognized in Argentina for progressive sustainability, employing responsible vineyard management and reducing synthetic inputs. While not certified organic/biodynamic, emissions are reduced via efficient farm practices and eco-friendly materials. The main limitation in sustainability is logistical: the wine is exported globally, increasing its carbon footprint outside South America. Within Argentine standards, it scores highly for sustainable viticulture and responsible producer ethos.