In its first decade of existence, the world knew little of Bodegas Tapiz. It was just another Argentine winery in Mendoza.

That changed in 2012 when Jean-Claude Berrouet, retired winemaker of Château Petrus from 1964-2008, came on as a consultant. He kept his clients few (like Silver Oak’s Twomey) to maintain focus and integrity.

Black Tears epitomizes the change. This is Malbec in all its glory. 96 Point Single-Vineyard Malbec estate-grown at an impossible 4,600 feet elevation and handcrafted by one of the greatest Bordeaux winemakers alive.

At nearly HALF OFF?! 35 bucks out the door. Very little to go around, and some sell outs are easy to predict…the only tears left might be your very own if you miss out.

In the glass it’s ruby with purple highlights on the narrow edge. Floral with intense blue flowers, raspberry compote, a striking touch of licorice, and smoky minerals. Massive on the palate, with complexity that would shame many a Bordeaux, pushing the envelope while remaining fresh and juicy, a tough feat to pull. Continues to expand on the finish, before wrapping it up with vibrant spices and herbs peeking through gobs of red and black berries. Grill away, Argentine style, whip up a chimichurri, and indulge in this wow red!

Wine Advocate saw it coming back in 2015: “Three years ago they hired winemaking consultant Jean-Claude Berrouet of Petrus fame. He’s aiming for less ripeness, oak, and extraction. I feel a change in the wines form the 2012 vintage onwards.”

Only a couple of years later Wine Enthusiast reported that “Winemaker Jean Claude Berrouet retired from Château Petrus nearly 10 years ago after 44 vintages for the famed unclassified Bordeaux that commands thousands of dollars per bottle. Perhaps Berrouet retired too young, as he has since become a consultant. Among his latest clients is Patricia Ortiz of Tapiz… The US importer says the wine is available is select markets. The only select market we could find was California… at a fraction of the $2,185 the 2007 Petrus is selling for.”

Today, the 2017 Petrus can be found at $3,300-5,000 per bottle. Inflation, appreciation, whatever you call it, nothing beats $35 for a majestic red by the man who made Petrus!

Stock up, while it lasts.

96 Points – James Suckling

“Perfumed aromas of violets, lavender, blueberries, cassis, and spiced cherries. Herbs and praline, too. It’s medium-to full-bodied with firm, powdery tannins, and fresh acidity, despite the richness. Concentrated with a long, chewy finish. Such a beauty already, but better in 2024.”