Noemía Malbec Patagonia Rio Negro Valley 2016

97+ points Luis Gutiérrez (Wine Advocate): "Cropped from an almost perfect growing season when the grapes ripened slowly, the 2016 Noemía is pure Malbec from one single plot of vines planted in 1932 and comes through as aromatic, floral, perfumed, open, showy and impressive. They used 25% full clusters (higher than in the past) for the vinification this year, and the wine matured in Darnajou oak demi-muids for a shorter amount of time than ever before—just 15 months—when it used to have an élevage of 18 months or longer. This is the result of winemaker Hans Vinding Diers now living on the property and following up on the vineyard and wine every day. It's open, impressive and captivating from minute one—as soon as I put my nose in the glass, I had to smile. The palate is elegant with refined tannins, bright fruit and subtle minerality, nicely textured. It's super tasty and elegant, with less alcohol than ever, yet it has not lost any of its clout and is still powerful and seems to have all that is needed for a nice, long life in bottle. This was bottled earlier than other vintages. It has to be one of the finest vintages of Noemía to date. Only 4,200 bottles were filled in August 2017. Drink: 2018-2032. (6/30/18)"

97 points Tim Atkin, MW: "All the stars aligned,” says Hans Vinding-Diers of the 2016 vintage, which was drier in the south than in rainy Mendoza. The result is a triumphant Noemía: savoury, complex and sweet, with caressing rose petal, wild strawberry and red cherry flavours, gentle, scented oak, fine-grained tannins and wonderful palate length. Bravo!"

96 points James Suckling: "Fascinating aromas of blackberries, hot stones, fresh herbs, coffee and hints of strawberries. Subtle and complex. Medium to full body with a very refined texture and fine-grained tannins. It builds on the palate as you taste it. Harmonious and focused. A pretty sensibility and savoriness, driving you back for another sip. Drink or hold. (12/27/18)"

94 points Wine Spectator: "Suave and refined, with a seductive minerality to the rich red plum, dark currant and black olive flavors. The finish is loaded with luscious dark chocolate and spicy notes. Drink now through 2024. (2/28/19)"