Familia Cecchin ‘Malbec’

Familia Cecchin ‘Malbec’ – a heady appropriation of this varietal with a notably vibrant fleshy presence. This particular cuveé is made without any additional sulphites; only those that form naturally during fermentation are present. The nose is open and inviting, extending wafts of black plum, overripe cherries and toasted liquorice. A brusque gust of cacao and mellow earthiness operates on both nose and palette, complemented by crushed blueberry and wild mountain herbs. A racy acidity and black olive salinity slash through the thicket of headier aromas and offer a cleansing quality. This is a majestically balanced wine, radiating eminence and an unexpected delicacy.

The Cecchin family emigrated from Italy to Southern Argentina in 1910. Almost two generations flitted by before Jorge and Pedro Cecchin purchased 11ha of vines in Mendoza and the current, now much larger estate, is managed by their grandson Oscar Alberto. Organic practices are employed on the farm and the cellar work is similarly low-intervention. Every cuveé is fermented with native yeasts, the use of sulphur is kept to a bare minimum and these philosophies are unwavering. Particularly, this expression of Malbec is decidedly more vivacious than one might expect. Managing to convey both brooding intensity and virile freshness, they have seemingly bottled twilight itself.

To be enjoyed alongside any winter-themed dish, plates of charcuterie or aggressive cheese boards. Familia Cecchin ‘Malbec’ – get the fire lighting, a vinyl spinning and this bottle decanting, ye shan’t be disappointed.