The 2021 Malbec J. Alberto from Mainqué, Río Negro was 30% aged for 12 months in used barrels. Bright purple in the glass. The refined, subtle nose offers notes of violet and sweet and sour cherry with hints of plum, cedar and sandalwood. Juicy in the mouth with finely grained, subtly grippy tannins, refined acidity, expressive flavor and a delicate texture, the nuanced details will grow more prominent in the bottle. A precisely made, pure red, it’s already growing noticeably in the glass.

Only 15% of this blend of Malbec with 9% Merlot and 1% Cabernet Franc saw any wood, and even that isn’t new, so it’s no surprise that A Lisa is engagingly floral, juicy and appealing. Raspberry, strawberry and black cherry flavours are supported by Patagonian acidity, savoury tannins and a chalky flourish.