Review: Wines of Dona Paula Estate, 2025 Releases
After 28 years, Mendoza’s Doña Paula Estate is no longer the region’s new kid on the block. However, it’s been over 15 years since we last uncorked anything from the winery, and it’s time to end the streak with a check in on three of their latest Malbec-heavy offerings. Like all wineries in the region, they offer a wide portfolio for a variety of tastes and pocketbooks. However, today we’ll be focusing squarely on their wines that emphasize affordability.
2023 Doña Paula Black Edition Estate Bold – A blend of 60% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Petit Verdot provides an easygoing experience, with dark berry and vanilla joined by layers of mulberry, baking spice, and a touch of dark chocolate. Brown sugar and mint lead the charge on the finish, accented by pleasant acidity and slightly coarse tannins. Diehard fans of both Cabernet and Malbec will find something enjoyable here, but a bit of a heads up: a solid 15-30 minute decant is gently advised. A- / $17
2023 Doña Paula High Altitude Estate Malbec – Dominant notes of raspberry and cherry make this an approachable Malbec for newcomers, along with a touch of violet and oak as the palate evolves. The violet note makes a faint reprise on the finish, offering a soft landing that lingers for quite some time. A nice value at this price, and its versatility and lightness make it a sound pairing with simple weeknight dinners. A- / $15
2023 Doña Paula Los Cardos Malbec – A rather thin, straightforward representation of the type of Malbec commonly located behind bars at chain hotels and airports. There really is not much to report upon other than a burst of blackberry and violet throughout, resting on a very dry and short finish. Unless you are hard-pressed for cash, in a state of despair from freshly served divorce papers, or are really in a mood to explore the outer reaches of nihilism, spend the extra five or seven bucks and upgrade to the Black Edition or High Altitude labels. No matter what is happening, you’re worth it. C- / $10
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