2023 Malbec, Destination Series, Sonoma Valley
Aromas of black plum, blackberry and cassis layered with notes of dark chocolate, violet and a touch of spice. On the palate, the wine is rich and structured, with concentrated dark fruit supported by fresh natural acidity. Flavors of blackberry, black cherry, a touch of forest floor and cocoa carry through a broad mid-palate, while the long, even ripening of the vintage brings polish to the tannins and a sense of balance throughout. The finish is persistent, with a mix of dark fruit and subtle savory notes.
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Wine Specs
Vintage
2023
Varietal
Malbec
Appellation
Sonoma Valley
Alcohol %
14.5
Wine Profile
Vineyard Notes
The 2023 Sonoma Valley vintage was shaped by a long, cool growing season, allowing for slow, even ripening. The wines show deep color, focused dark fruit and fresh natural acidity, with moderate alcohol and well-developed, polished tannins. Overall, a balanced and structured vintage with good aging potential. From a mix of valley floor and hillside sites, with blocks sitting at moderate elevations across a range of aspects. South- and west-facing slopes provide consistent sun exposure, helping drive ripeness, while elevation and afternoon breezes off the valley floor help retain freshness. Soils are well-draining, with a mix of volcanic and loam, supporting balanced vine growth and concentration.
Winemaker Notes
Hand-harvested and delivered to the winery, the fruit was destemmed and berry sorted prior to fermentation. The must was transferred to tank for a four-day cold soak to build color and aromatics, before being allowed to warm naturally and inoculated with select yeast strains sourced from Bordeaux. Fermentation proceeded over approximately 14 days, with regular pump-overs to achieve balanced extraction of tannin and flavor. Following primary fermentation, the wine was gently pressed and transferred to barrel, where malolactic fermentation took place. The wine was then aged in the Kunde caves for around 20 months, allowing for gradual integration and development, before a gentle filtration and bottling.
Food Pairing Notes
This Malbec pairs beautifully with roast lamb, as its rich dark fruit complements the meat’s depth while the tannins help cut through the fat. Herbal and savory notes echo the rosemary and garlic, and the wine’s acidity balances the dish, lifting the crispy, golden potatoes.