Nose: Violet and cherry, with a savory note of charred pork and spice with a little bit of time in the glass. Some cracked black pepper eventually emerges and the pork note recedes, leaving the sweeter notes coming to the foreground.
Palate: Quite a bit more cherry and raspberry here. Holds its strength well and stays balanced with light acidity and tannins. The oak influence becomes present during subsequent sips, with a bit more vanilla and leather arriving.
Finish: Medium. Stays as advertised on the nose and palate.
This is a respectable Mendoza. Nothing miraculous or offensive, nothing too complex. It's a serviceable bottle at a dinner party that won't irritate any Malbec fans in attendance. Worth considering if looking for something out of the ordinary.
$20