From Vista Flores vineyard in Mendonza.

It's a low production (less than 700 cases) Malbec from Catherine Péré-Vergé's Bodega (owner of Ch. Montviel and Ch. la Gravière from Bordeaux) in the Clos de los Siete project. I guess this is an early experiment, since they bought the estate in 1998 and all the other wines (1st release, including the more expensive Lindaflor - also from Catherine - and Val de Flores) are 2002.

It matures 16 months in 100% new French oak and then some more time in bottle. Dark ruby and very ripe. Dark fruits is the first thing that comes to mind, besides the evident oak. I picked up light chocolate, earth and eucalyptus notes latter on. Full body and strong tannins. Medium finish. More time in cellar could mellow it a little, but it doesn't have that much acidity, and I'm afraid the oak might overpower the fruit in the long run. Not French in style at all, but an interesting wine, specially for the extracted wine lovers. I recommend it if you can find it under US$25. Drink now-2005. 90 pts.