Agustín Lanús Ilogico Malbec 2020, High-Altitude Red
Agustín Lanús Ilogico Malbec 2020, High-Altitude Red
Price: 23,33€
DESCRIPTION
The Sunal Ilogico Malbec is crafted by Agustín Lanús, a pioneer of extreme altitude winemaking in the Calchaquí Valleys of north-west Argentina. His vineyards are located between 2,100 and 2,700 metres above sea level, in isolated areas of Salta, Catamarca and Tucumán. Night harvesting by hand, spontaneous fermentation in concrete tanks, 15 months ageing in neutral barrels and concrete eggs: a fully artisanal process, with no fining or filtration, to preserve the soul of the high Andean plateaus.
The Sunal Ilogico Malbec is the perfect expression of high-altitude Malbec — concentrated, fresh and elegant all at once. Sourced from several extreme terroirs, it combines aromatic intensity, supple texture and natural acidity. Descorchados awarded it 91/100, praising its precision and vibrant character. James Suckling highlights its notes of asphalt and crunchy berries, its lively and precise palate with elderberry accents, and its brilliant finish.
On the nose, a bouquet of red and black fruits, floral touches and fine spice notes. The palate is fresh, juicy and harmonious, with fine tannins and a long finish. A refined red that pairs beautifully with duck breast, grilled ribeye, rack of lamb or a gently spiced stew. Delicious with aged cheeses too.
REGION
Salta
Argentina
Located in northwestern Argentina, at the foot of the Andes Mountains, the Salta wine region is one of the most spectacular in the country. Its vineyards, perched between 1,600 and over 3,000 meters above sea level, rank among the highest in the world. This extreme high-altitude climate—sunny by day and cool at night—combined with arid, mineral-rich soils, promotes the production of wines with remarkable aromatic intensity and natural freshness.
While Torrontés remains the flagship white grape of Salta, its red wines are equally noteworthy. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tannat thrive here, delivering powerful expressions marked by concentrated fruit, bright acidity, and aromas of flowers, spices, and warm stone. Winemakers are also reviving heritage varieties such as Criolla Chica, introduced by Spanish settlers in the 16th century. Hardy and well-suited to high altitudes, Criolla produces light, vibrant wines with floral notes and refreshing acidity.
At the heart of the valleys lies the small town of Cafayate, widely considered the epicenter of Salta’s wine scene. Its internationally acclaimed wines combine power, freshness, and minerality, in a style that is truly unique to this part of the world.
Recommended for your:
I really like this high-altitude Malbec for its finesse. Aromas of dark fruits and a delicate floral note. The freshness on the palate is remarkable.
