Mil Piedras Malbec 2010

Rich, lush, and full flavored, Mil Piedras Malbec has inviting aromas of wild blackberries and fresh blackcurrants. Brilliant flavors of ripe raspberries with notes of toasty vanilla. The finish is long and smooth. Enjoy this fine malbec with savory stews, empanadas, grilled meats, or full-flavored cheeses.

Produced and bottled by Colle di Boasi (AKA Benvenuto de la Serna). Benvenuto de la Serna wines are made with estate-grown fruit from their single vineyard located in one of the most prestigious wine regions of Argentina, Valle de Uco. A small family winery owned by Silvio Benvenuto, son of Italian winemaking immigrants, whose mission statement is to "make 100% estate and 100% handcrafted wines." Benvenuto de la Serna is located at 3,609 feet above sea level. Tucked away in the westernmost end of the Mendoza province, the region has a semi-desert climate where the bright sun shines throughout the year with very little rainfall. Located in the most pristine environment the water supply, essential for the vines in the desert, comes from fresh snowmelt off the Andes mountains directly next to the vineyard (literally). The alluvial soil in this area is known for being extremely stony with predominately sand content, which allows the roots of the vines to reach incredibly deep into the ground while offering excellent drainage. With very large temperature swings between the hot days and cool nights, the vines yield elegant wines that are noted by the smooth-textured red fruit, bright acidity, as well rounded tannins.