2023 Zuccardi - Malbec Serie Q (750ml)

Zuccardi's Serie Q dates back to 1999 and holds special meaning for the family as the first wines to carry the Zuccardi name on the label. The letter Q, for quality, was used to mark the estate's best vineyard plots so that vineyard workers would recognize which sites were destined for the winery's top tier of fruit. As a third-generation, family-run operation, Zuccardi has built its reputation on pairing that early commitment to quality with a strong focus on sustainability, from energy-efficient winery design to responsible farming across its Uco Valley vineyards.

This bottling blends Malbec from two high-altitude sites in the Uco Valley, Paraje Altamira in San Carlos and Los Chacayes in Tunuyán, both sitting above 3,000 feet where alluvial soils are studded with stones and calcareous deposits. After harvest the wine rests through a winter in concrete tanks along with used, untoasted French oak barrels, a gentle approach meant to preserve freshness and let the two vineyards' distinct characters come through in the final blend.

The wine pours an intense violet red and offers aromas of fresh red fruit, rose, and violet layered with herbs, spice, and a touch of mint. The palate is medium to full bodied, with firm, ripe tannins and a notably long finish. Try it with grilled flank steak, charred bell peppers, or aged provolone.