Review: 3 New Wines from Argentina, Fall 2024 Releases
Just arrived: Three new (to us) wines from two new (to us) vineyards from Argentina, just in time to make the shift from summer to autumn. Mendoza’s Argento has a solid reputation for its numerous sensibly-priced Malbecs serving well as introductions to the varietal without breaking the bank. Bodega Otronia, on the other hand, comes to us from Patagonia and is a relatively younger winery on the ever-growing Patagonian scene. Commonly regarded as the most southern point in the world in which one can grow vines, the organic vineyard is planning some rather interesting things, including a Gewürztraminer and Riesling, and is looking to distinguish itself from the pack. Let’s find out if they do the job.
2020 Otronia 45 Rugientes Pinot Noir – Surprisingly light and evoking traits normally found in Oregon Pinot Noir, with raspberry fusing beautifully with clove and nutmeg, framed by good acidity and easy tannins. It is well-balanced from start to finish and a light touch of black tea on the finish makes this a lovely wine for autumn’s cooler moments. I am excited to see how this winery evolves over the next several years. One to put on your watch list. A- / $45
2023 Argento Artesano White Malbec – A white Malbec is certainly something that doesn’t show up every day, and a quick, lazy search of the site indicates this very well might be the first we’ve reviewed. The wine finds delicate, fresh notes of green melon and tangerine with hints of pear and green apple on the palate. Showing nice acidity with a long finish, it pushes a mild note of vanilla toward the end. Given its lightness and ease of approach throughout, it wouldn’t be at all surprising if this was mistaken for something else. A very interesting arrangement and of great value. B+ / $15
2021 Argento Estate Collection Malbec – Densely packed with ripe dark berries, it needs a bit of time to simmer down in the glass. Over time baking spice and oak emerges, but the tannins overpower and never really push things forward from there. Some herbaceous qualities peek through on the drying finish, but it doesn’t really settle down or evoke much else. It may be cliche to suggest this with Malbec, but pairing this with a big slab of red meat is strongly advised. C+ / $20
bodegaargento.com / otronia.com
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