Bodegas Bianchi, IV Generación Gran Corte, Los Chacayes, Tunuyán, Uco Valley, Mendoza 2019 (14.5%)

The anatomisation of Uco is one of the wine world’s great adventures at present: it’s been obvious for some years that the resource is a splendid one. If you harbour any doubts, try to get hold of a bottle of this midnight-black blend of Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Head-turning fruit perfumes are always possible here – but harnessing and optimising that aromatic potential is the point of this blend, which actually steals from the glass stealthily and convinces by slow increments. On the palate, the wine is wide, amply dimensioned and naturally balanced, with textural wealth. The blend has brought complexity to what is clearly outstanding fruit. It’s young still, and a few years in the cellar will provide further insights into this finely crafted Uco classic.

A DWWA Best in Show that encapsulates the modern-day incarnation of its creator, Bodegas Bianchi, which was founded almost 100 years ago by Italian immigrant Valentin Bianchi.

Named to celebrate the most recent generation of family ownership, this blend of 60% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Merlot reflects the terroir-focused work undertaken by chief winemaker Silvio Alberto since he came on board five years ago.

‘The terroir is the protagonist,’ says Alberto. ‘We are always looking for the ideal terroir. In this blend we have the best grapes from selected blocks of our Los Chacayes vineyard.

‘Los Chacayes is one of the best terroirs in Argentina for several reasons. We have a lot of rocks in our alluvial soils which deliver freshness, a mineral component and expressive fruit notes. Furthermore, the high altitude – 1,100m – at the foot of the Andes brings colour, tannin maturation and wines with nerve and a unique personality.’

Crafted in a brand-new winery dedicated to the estate’s premium wines, this spent time in 750-litre ceramic amphorae and French oak, with 7,900 bottles produced.