Rebelion Malbec 2020, MAAL, Argentina

MAAL stands for, Malbec-As-Alfredo-Likes. Produced by Alfredo Merlo, who trained at Harlan Estate in Napa before starting MAAL. He is a young winemaker from Mendoza and his vision is to produce unique, elegant and intense Malbecs. The grapes are sourced from his vineyards in Luján de Cuyo, and from small special vineyard plots owned by close friends and family. The three sites are at an altitude of 1100 / 1250 / 900m and age of 9 / 6 / 95 years, respectively. 

40% was aged for 6 months in 4th use French and American barrels, the rest with a stave in the tank (to get benefits of oak without too much flavour). No yeast was added to get the fermentation going.

Packed with lush plummy fruits, it is rich and smooth yet it retains a fresh lift.