Michelini I Mufatto 2019 La Cautiva Malbec Wine – WA95 Rated Excellence

Michelini I Mufatto La Cautiva Malbec 2019
Hailing from Mendoza’s renowned vineyards in Argentina, this exceptional Malbec offers a masterclass in balance and complexity. Crafted by Michelini I Mufatto using traditional methods rooted in artisanal winemaking, La Cautiva 2019 stands out for its unique flavor profile shaped by meticulous attention to detail. The grapes undergo 100% whole-cluster fermentation with foot-treading—a hands-on approach that preserves delicate aromas while enhancing texture—followed by extended maceration lasting up to four months. This process is then perfected through two winters of aging in a spacious 3,000-liter oak foudre, allowing nuanced spicy and smoky notes to develop alongside a refined chalky structure.

Wine Advocate awarded this vintage 95 points, praising its bold yet harmonious character despite being born from a cooler growing season. At 14% alcohol by volume (ABV), it strikes an impressive balance between ripeness and acidity, reflecting the winemakers’ focus on freshness over intensity during harvest. On the palate, velvety tannins and a lingering mineral finish make it both approachable now and primed for further evolution in the bottle. With time in your cellar post-2024, its flavors will integrate seamlessly, revealing even greater depth.

Produced in limited quantities—just 4,000 standard bottles plus rare magnums—this small-batch Malbec is a collector’s gem as much as a drinking pleasure. Bottled in September 2021 without excessive filtering ensures purity of expression, capturing Mendoza’s terroir at its finest. Whether you’re seeking an Argentinian wine with cellar potential or a smoky Malbec for special occasions, La Cautiva 2019 delivers sophistication and value for discerning palates.

Price and availability may vary by store location. Vintage date may differ from image displayed.