CARLOS PULENTA 2011 VISTALBA "CORTE C"
Bodega Vistalba was built in the year 2002 on a family farm in the heart of Vistalba (Luján de Cuyo), Argentina. The architecture style is "Criollo" or Argentine native style. This blends perfectly into the classic Mendoza terroir. Following the heritage of his ancestors and the traditional winemaking that the first Italian and Spanish immigrants brought to Argentina, this is where owner and winemaker Carlos Pulenta developed his personal undertaking of blending wines involving members of his family, advisors, enologists and a highly-esteemed group of people who knew his land well.If the Vistalba name and "Corte C" designation sound familiar-- they should. We've featured different vintages of this same wine many times before, including the 2005 which was our wine of the month in October, 2008. Besides being an amazing wine (yet again!), it's an even better bargain at $8.95, a dollar cheaper then 5 years ago while still tasting like a wine in the $15-20 price range! This year's blend (80% Malbec, 20% Cab) may be the best one yet!
The nose is an enticing blend of red and black berry fruits, cherries and blackberries, surrounded by a midnight garden floral ambiance-- the perfume is captivating! Subtle notes of briar and cedar wood with a light touch of mixed spices and tobacco make for a more complex, rich aromatic milieu. The palate continues with the red and dark fruit flavors, suspended in an unctuous body and mouthfeel. Notes of charcuterie and leather meld with silky tannins and appropos acidity leading to a layer of spice and underbrush. The finish is lengthy, tasty and memorable. This is a great wine of the month to start the year with and will get even better over the next year or two-- stock up and enjoy this one!
