“A name to follow.” - Wine Advocate

Take heed, here’s the Malbec we’ve been waiting for!

Only Mendoza Malbec can deliver 94 points (from the fickle Vinous no less) for $22. It’s actually not an uncommon feat for the region. But THIS. It’s on another level for the price. An easy-drinking, smile-inducing, pop-any-night pick.

A Vinous deep dive into Argentina concluded that “Uco Valley Is the Future” because “the spectacular terroirs of Uco Valley are producing a growing percentage of the country’s classiest wines.”

Classiest? Bingo.

But perhaps they should let more Chileans make Argentinean Malbec? You read that right, Calyptra is a Chilean winery. But their pursuit of high-altitude terroir took them across the border into Argentina. Specifically, the Uco Valley. Wayra comes from the Quechua dialect “huayra” which means “wind.” It’s an ode to the Mountain winds where this wine is born.

Decanter named Calyptra in their “Chile’s New-Wave” article stating that “a new breed of adventurous winemakers are blazing a brave, exciting - and refreshing - trail that will make the rest of the world take notice.”

Notice taken. We also took every bottle they had.

Why? Because this stuff is simply too good to leave behind.

One sniff and you succumb to its haunting mélange of dark fruits with savory elements. One sip and the perfect marriage of black raspberry and cassis, classy oak, tobacco, and spice hit you. With medium to full-bodied richness, a supple, seamless texture, sweet tannin, and a great finish, it’s the complete package. And for $22 you’ll have money leftover for a nice steak.

Your turn, grab ‘em by the case while we look the other way.

94 Points – Antonio Galloni’s Vinous

“The 2015 Gran Malbec Wayra from the Uco Valley was aged in used barrels for up to 18 months. Dark garnet in hue. The attractive nose presents notes from the aging process. There is an evolving bouquet including cedar, sandalwood and pencil box notes underneath ripe fruit, black tea and chocolate. Relaxed in the mouth, the fine tannins are well-integrated with a precise freshness that adds to their length and emphasizes the aromas at the end where the fruit takes center stage. A complex, nuanced wine. Drink 2021-2035.”