Wines Mendoza Opi Sadler - Malbec - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Opi Sadler's Cuvée Malbec 2020 is a vibrant expression of Mendoza's signature grape variety, crafted to capture both the power and elegance for which Argentinian Malbecs are renowned. Made exclusively from Malbec grapes—the country’s flagship red varietal—this vintage showcases the best attributes of Mendoza’s terroir. The 2020 harvest benefitted from plentiful sunshine and cool Andean nights, resulting in a wine with ripe, concentrated fruit flavors, balanced with freshness and soft tannins. The vinification process likely involved careful temperature control during fermentation to preserve the vivid berry aromas and a subtle use of oak that adds smoothness and a hint of spice, enhancing complexity without overpowering the fruit.

Mendoza, nestled at the foothills of the Andes, is Argentina’s most celebrated wine region. Its high altitude vineyards, often planted between 900 and 1,100 meters above sea level, benefit from intense solar radiation and wide diurnal temperature variations. The region’s semi-arid climate is moderated by mountain breezes and irrigation from pure Andean snowmelt. Soils are typically alluvial, with a mix of sand, silt, and gravel, promoting deep root systems and contributing to the concentration and aromatic intensity of the grapes. Mendoza’s rise as a world-class wine region started in the late 19th century with the introduction of French grape varieties, with Malbec quickly becoming its star.

This Malbec’s generous fruit character—think blackberries, plums, and hints of violets, underlain by subtle notes of cocoa and tobacco—pairs remarkably well with grilled meats, a hallmark of Argentine cuisine. Traditional dishes such as bife de chorizo (sirloin steak) or empanadas mendocinas accentuate the wine’s ripe tannins and juicy acidity. For a regional twist, enjoy it with provoleta, the local grilled cheese specialty, or a hearty mushroom risotto to echo its earthy undertones.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this wine slightly below room temperature, ideally between 16 and 18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes will allow the flavors to open up beautifully, revealing its layered complexity and supple finish. This Malbec can be enjoyed now or cellared for a few years to further enhance its maturity and depth.