1 | Wine | Argentina, $20 to $50

"It has a floral bouquet of wild strawberry, raspberry, rhubarb and a touch of Hoi Sin that is well-defined. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, dry tannins on the entry that lend this Malbec a “classic” feel. It is very well-balanced and harmonious, with light strawberry, balsamic and pomegranate notes on the minerally finish. This is a superb Malbec."

"Pain grille, pencil lead, Asian spices, incense, violets, and assorted black fruits inform the nose of a complex, intense, layered, spicy, succulent wine with impeccable balance and length. Although it can be approached now, it will benefit from another 2-3 years of cellaring."

"A dense, smoky red, showing a creamy edge to the spicy kirsch, plum sauce and grilled fig notes that mingle with hints of baking spice and medium tannins. Fine length."

"A dense, chewy red, exhibiting dark raspberry coulis, blackberry reduction and plum skin notes that remain fresh through the smoke- and mineral-tinged finish. Fine length."

"The flagship is the 2009 Grand Malbec, a contender for Malbec of the vintage at this early stage. A glass-coating opaque purple color with legs that ooze down the glass, it offers up a beautiful bouquet of sandalwood, exotic spices, truffle, floral notes, red licorice, and black cherry. Voluptuous on the palate, this sweetly-fruited, dense, nicely proportioned Malbec will evolve for 4-5 years and deliver prime drinking from 2015 to 2029."

"The Catena Alta Chardonnay 2010 presents an intenese greenish-yellow color. The nose offers ripe white fruit aromas such as pears and peaches that are interwoven with delicate citrus and floral notes, such as Jasmine. The palate shows rich and concentrated ripe pear, apple and apricot flavors with a light note of minerality. The wine finishes long and complex with crisp, mineral acidity."

"Licorice and chocolatey oak dominate the nose. Very ripe and thick but also juicy and serious, with a flavor of raspberry liqueur supported by serious tannic structure. Less confectionery than the Patriota or Jubilo bottlings, and a bit less easygoing today. Finishes broad, round, lush and fairly tannic, with strong chocolatey oak tones and good energy. This held up nicely with extended aeration."