Hand of God Wines 2010 Fingerprint Series Red and Boom Varietal: The Rise of Argentine Malbec
As I was preparing for for my trip to Mendoza, I thought it would be a great idea to learn a little about the history of Malbec, as well as taste an Argentine wine. I decided to open my Hand of God Wines 2010 Fingerprint Series Red (55% Malbec, 35% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot), Sobremesa Vineyard, Uco Valley, Mendoza. It’s $45.00 online, but this was sample graciously provided by the winery. I paired this wine with a cheddar bacon burger and the documentary Boom Varietal: The Rise of Argentine Malbec, given to me by a friend.
Both the film and the wine were quite interesting. The film documents the history of Malbec in Argentina, from the 1800s through today, by way of five or six wine producers. Some of the producers have long histories of winemaking that date back generations, while others are people who came to Argentina to produce wine or invested in Argentine wine to get into the business, as it was a more inexpensive option than other countries. I also learned a bit about the history and turmoil of the Argentine government, which has played a pivotal role in Malbec’s development as Argentina’s most exported wine.
The 2010 Hand of God Wines 2010 Fingerprint Series Red was the perfect accompaniment, although the burger wasn’t bad, either. This wine is labrynth of layered aromas and flavors, such as dark berries and fruits, chocolate, and peppery spices. I also detected meaty, earthy, salty qualities to the wine, which I suspect is a reflexion of the vineyard in which the grapes are grown. It also had a full, lush mouthfeel and a very long finish.
Wine Specs
Vintage: 2010
Varietal: Malbec-Syrah-Petit Verdot
Appellation: Uco Valley
Vineyard Designation: Sobremesa Vineyard
Aging: 20 months in 50% new French oak, 50% 2nd year seasoned oak
Alcohol: 14.5%
I thoroughly enjoyed learning a little about the history and growth of Malbec while savoring one of Argentina’s finest offerings. Now I feel a little more prepared for the longest journey of my life to beautiful Mendoza.
