2013 MASSIMO MALBEC MASSIMO LITERALLY MEANS “BIG”—AND MASSIMO MALBEC DELIVERS MONUMENTAL FLAVOR. Grown in the most prestigious Malbec appellation, Mendoza, Argentina. Vintage Report: Massimo’s Malbec grapes come from select blocks of vineyards on the slopes of the Andes, where the 4,000-­‐foot altitude mitigates the temperature. Here, summers are temperate to warm and the ripening season is much longer, leading to richly concentrated fruit with good acidity. December experienced long days of sunshine complemented by very little rain and virtually no frosts, allowing the fruit to ripen at its leisure with no threat of disease. The long drawn-­‐out summer enjoyed moderate daytime temperatures that strongly favored the temperament of Malbec, resulting in optimal flavor development and balanced acidity. Viticulture: Well-­‐drained soils, limited rainfall and prevailing winds all contribute to ideal growing conditions. Judicious drip irrigation is used only when needed, as the vines send roots deep into the rocky soil, picking up underground water sources and trace minerals. When it has achieved just the right balance between ripeness and acidity, the fruit is handpicked early in the morning to preserve freshness and then rushed to the winery. Winemaking: The crushed grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks, then racked into barrels where the wine underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine aged 3 months in neutral 3rd and 4th used French oak barrels. Tasting note: Massimo Malbec is dark garnet with purple edges. Medium-­‐bodied with powerful blackberry and blueberry notes framed by blueberry syrup and blackberry jam on a lingering finish. Pairing: Massimo Malbec’s powerful flavors are the perfect match for a classic mixed grill, spice-­‐rubbed chicken, juicy burgers or enjoy it Argentine-­‐style with a seared steak glossed with chimichurri sauce. Vintage: Appellation: Alcohol by volume: pH: TA: SRP: 2013 Mendoza, Argentina 13.5% 3.63 .56 g/100ml $12.99