Author: Dirk Chan
Our online feature this week is the 2021 Kaiken Ultra Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $24.99, regularly $29.99.
Argentina’s Kaiken Winery has been a leader in the heart of Lujan de Cuyo’s Vistalba region, but also with vineyards extending from Cafayate to Patagonia. This district in Luján de Cuyo sits at the base of the Andes, forty kilometers south of the city of Mendoza. The altitude of this vineyard ensures a wide temperature range good for maturing grapes. The high altitude (up to 1250 feet) has something to do with the quality and consistency of their lineup, always capturing the spirit of the land.
Our weekly special this week is their Ultra Malbec, Wine Spectator’s No. 30 Wine of the Year from 2024. It is classic Argentinean Malbec with an intense red cor with violet and blue hues. The lovely violet nose alongside purple fruits is enticing, while plum, black fruits, white pepper and clove make an appearance on the concentrated yet velvety palate. Medium-full bodiness leads to surprisingly soft tannins on the slightly smoky licoricey finish. There is a lot of variety here and a special finesse, probably the result of grapes cultivated from their three terroirs – Los Chacayes, Altamira and Gualtallary. Measure your palate against the wine critics! – Pair with a grilled beef tenderloin.
Prost!
2021 Kaiken Ultra Malbec (Mendoza, Argentina) – $24.99, regularly $29.99.