2017 Bodega Atamisque Catalpa Malbec Old Vines 750 ml

Altitude Meets Attitude: Malbec from the Top of the World

Our lungs burned. Our legs shook and strained. We trekked to the top of the world, we risked life and limb, and have come down from the mountain with your ultimate summertime red, the 2017 Bodega Atamsique Catalpa Malbec. Today, for under $20, you can experience the dazzling 2017—its juicy core, fantastic concentration, and approachable, supple tannins—without the hike.

Ironically, the most dangerous moment wasn’t hoofing it through the ancient vines during our first visit to the stunning, untamed Atamisque estate—which sits in the shadow of the snow-capped Andes, nearly a mile above sea level—but back at Rincón Atamisque, the estate’s plush restaurant. We were nearly knocked out of our chairs by the 2017 Old Vines’ expressive aromas of blackberries, currants, and crushed violets, which were joined by juicy black fruit in an intense, structured, and silken Malbec.

The Atamisque Old Vine Malbec is a perfect reminder of why old vines matter. As vines age, they produce less and less fruit, so all their flavor is packed into fewer and fewer berries. This imbues the wine with the kind of flavor concentration that can only be attained in the vineyard, a natural intensity that no winemaking techniques can add.

The ancient vines at Atamisque are raised in the dry, sunny, and high-elevation climate of Uco Valley and irrigated by pure Andean snowmelt, resulting in lush, concentrated red wines that boast not just richness, but the fresh acid-cut of classic European powerhouse reds. 

A wine from 80-year-old vines is special, period. But a wine showing this kind of quality for $20 is a must-have. Complemented by a year in 40% new French oak, the Atamisque has it all: a full and juicy body, beautiful flavor concentration, and a stout frame that will allow it to stand with any rich foods you set it next to.