While Malbec is widely associated with the South American regions of Argentina and Chile, one of the largest vineyards in Arizona, Carlson Creek Vineyard, took advantage of their growing regions similarities by planting this robust purple grape. The result is a full-bodied 2015 Malbec ($40/bottle) with a long finish and firm tannins, highlighted by notes of black fruit, plums and blackberries with a hint of light smoke, sweet tobacco and black pepper.

“Our vineyard in Willcox has a higher elevation and similar latitude and soil composition to that of Argentina and Chile so it was a natural choice for us to plant these vines and we couldn’t be happier with the resulting wine,” said co-owner and winemaker Robert Carlson III. “With a very limited number of 100 cases produced, we expect to sell out quickly.”

At 4200 feet in elevation amongst the newly designated Willcox AVA, the Carlson family’s 280-acre vineyard also features well-draining alluvial soil, making the perfect growing conditions for this grape, as well as the seven other varietals they have planted currently (including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon).

For more information or to purchase the 2015 Malbec ($40/bottle) once it becomes available on July 14, visit either tasting room (Scottsdale: 4142 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 or Willcox: 115 Railview Ave., Willcox, AZ 85643) or purchase online at CarlsonCreek.com.

Read more at source Wine Industry Advisor