2018 Clos De Los Siete Red Blend Mendoza Argentina

Clos De Los Siete was created by world-renowned Bordeaux winemaker, Michel Rolland. After traveling to Argentina in 1988, he recognized that all the conditions were right to grow a very great wine and partnered with other Bordeaux families to develop 7 vineyards in the Uco Valley of Mendoza. Under his direction, 4 estates work together to produce the #1 blend exported from Argentina, consistently received critical acclaim!

"There are good places to grow wine everywhere, but Argentina is especially blessed. Its position in relation to the Andes Mountains means you can play with altitude and benefit from milder weather in a very sunny country. The soil types made up of gravel and stones that have washed down from the mountains are also particularly conducive." ~Michel Rolland

The wines of the Clos gain their success from the favorable combination of four key elements, which are hard to find all in one place, except in Argentina. Generous soils, conducive weather, top-flight vines, and a beneficial orientation collectively contribute to producing world-class wine, inspiring the world to dream big!

A vibrant ruby red color, the elegant blend offers amazing aromas of blackberries and plums with spicy floral notes. On the palate, it is balanced and fresh with a pleasant acidity characteristic of the vintage, giving it an excellent capacity to age.

Clos de los Siete almost never fails, and this version from a ripe and easy vintage is just that: ripe and easy. Inky blackberry and black currant aromas show a waft of campfire creosote, while this feels big and round, with plenty of mouth-blackening fruit. Oak-aided blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors come with a hint of herbs, while the finish is smooth and mild. Drink through 2023. ~92 Wine Enthusiast

I think the 2018 Clos de Los Siete is the finest vintage of this blend that I've tasted so far. In this cooler year, it's a blend of 55% Malbec, 19% Merlot, 12% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% each Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. It has good ripeness (14.5%), juicy but fresh and balanced, tasty, with full flavors and fine tannins. Seventy percent of the wine matured in 225-liter French barriques for 11 months. Instant gratification at a great price. ~91+ Robert Parker's Wine Advocate