Susana Balbo Nosotros 2020

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1999 by Susana Balbo, Argentina’s first female enologist, Dominio del Plata is located in Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza. Susana Balbo Wines, as it’s now known, has become one of Argentina’s most respected wineries, recognized for its innovation and commitment to quality. The winery emphasizes sustainable practices and produces several acclaimed labels, including Crios, BenMarco, and Nosotros. The Nosotros line represents the pinnacle of the winery’s production, showcasing the best expression of Malbec from select vineyards.

Producer and Winemaker

Susana Balbo, often referred to as the “Queen of Torrontés,” leads the winemaking team with a focus on elegance and precision. Collaborating with her son, José Lovaglio, they employ meticulous vineyard management and innovative techniques to craft wines that reflect Argentina’s diverse terroirs. Their approach combines traditional methods with modern technology to produce wines of exceptional character and balance.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The 2020 Nosotros Malbec originates from the Gualtallary sub-region in the Uco Valley, Mendoza. Situated at an altitude of 1,300 meters, the vineyard benefits from a cool climate and significant diurnal temperature variation, which contribute to the development of complex flavors and balanced acidity. The soils are predominantly poor and stony, providing excellent drainage and stressing the vines to produce concentrated fruit.

Vinification & Aging Methods

Grapes were refrigerated at 8°C (46°F) for 24 hours before crushing. A double selection of bunches and berries ensured optimal quality. Cold maceration lasted four days, followed by fermentation in 6,500-liter French oak casks using native yeasts at temperatures between 28°-30°C (82°-90°F). Post-fermentation maceration extended for 30-35 days. Malolactic fermentation occurred in barrels. The wine was aged for 16 months in French oak barrels, 80% of which were new and 20% second-use. 

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Nosotros Malbec exhibits an opaque purple color. The nose reveals complex aromas of graphite, tarry black and blue fruits, dark minerals, cocoa powder, and cigar box. On the palate, it is full-bodied and juicy, with broad-shouldered, fine-grained tannins. The wine is intense, concentrated, and incredibly persistent, with mineral notes emerging on the finish. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This robust Malbec pairs excellently with rich dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, braised lamb shanks, or duck confit. Its depth and structure complement hearty stews and aged cheeses like Manchego or Gouda. For a unique pairing, consider Moroccan chicken pastilla or jugged hare to highlight the wine’s complexity. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

Serve at 16°C to 18°C (61°F to 64°F) in large Bordeaux-style glasses to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity. Decanting for 1 to 2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its nuanced flavors.

Storage and Aging Potential

Store in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity. The 2020 vintage has excellent aging potential, expected to evolve gracefully over the next 10 to 15 years, developing greater complexity and depth with time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

100% Malbec

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

14.5%

Scores

• James Suckling: 98

• Tim Atkin: 94

• Wine Spectator: 94