4 | Wine | 86 to 90, 2011

"Possibly the single greatest dry red wine value in the world, this is an unbelievable wine. And don’t complain that you can’t find any, as there are 15,000 cases available, and any wine retailer worth his weight should be stockpiling this wine next to the cash register. Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by classic aromas of kirsch liqueur intermixed with raspberries, loamy soil and flowers. This medium to full-bodied wine possesses remarkable depth, an expansive texture and wonderful freshness as well as purity. On taste alone, this beauty could easily sell for $30-50 a bottle."

"Medium-bodied, with good acid, sweet berry fruit, some pepper, incense and spice." -Robert Parker

"No oak is used in this totally naked red. It emphasizes minerality and fruit, as evidenced by its crushed chalk-like notes intermixed with sweet kirsch, lavender and licorice. This fresh, medium to full-bodied, supple-textured, hedonistic as well as intellectually challenging wine should drink well for 2-3 years." -Robert Parker

"Dark ruby. Lively redcurrant and cherry on the nose, complicated by spice and floral elements. Juicy, vibrant cherry and floral pastille flavors show very good depth, with juicy acidity adding clarity and lift. Aeration brings up deeper blackberry and anise notes that carry through a spicy persistent finish. This has to be one of the best red wine values out there."

"The 2011 Altos del Plata Malbec has a crisp blackberry and raspberry-scented bouquet that has impressive intensity and purity for the price point. The palate is medium-bodied with crunchy, primal black fruit and a touch of iodine on the punchy, sprightly finish. This is a great wine for the price."

"Deceptively complex, tight and vibrant, with a slow rise of citrus-laced mineral, green pear and honeydew melon notes that build on the finish, where a touch of nutmeg adds dimension."

"Sweet kirsch liqueur intermixed with notions of smoky camphor and roasted meats are followed by a powerful as well as elegant, opaque purple-colored wine with deep fruit, medium to full body and a long finish. With abundant glycerin and fresh, it is a sexy red to enjoy over the next 2-3 years."-Robert Parker

"Glass-staining ruby. Aromas of blackberry, boysenberry, smoky minerals and white pepper, with a suggestion of candied rose. Supple on entry, then firmer in the mid-palate, with vibrant flavors of black and blue fruits and floral pastilles. Finishes with powerful blue fruit and spice notes and very good length."

"Cassis, blueberry, violet, licorice, menthol and herbs on the pure nose. Creamy-sweet in the mouth, but nicely integrated acidity and a touch of herbs give the wine good energy and lift. Finishes firm and fresh, with fine-grained, supple tannins and plenty of structural support. A juicy, brisk, refreshing cabernet." -Stephen Tanzer

"Smoke, violets, incense, and black cherry aromas set the stage for a surprisingly elegant, lengthy wine that offers superb value."