ALMA NEGRA
MISTERIO 2016
A BLEND OF PLEASURE • UCO VALLEY • ARGENTINA
"An enigma revealed in the glass: the art of the perfect blend hidden under the veil of mystery."
The Enigma of Ernesto Catena
The Alma Negra Misterio 2016 is a wine that challenges market logic to focus on pure emotion. Produced in the prestigious Vista Flores area by the Ernesto Catena Vineyards winery, this blend is a selection of the best barrels of the vintage. The 2016 harvest, known for its fresh and vibrant profile, has given this example admirable longevity. It is a deep, dark wine with a spiritual charge that reflects its creator's biodynamic and artistic vision.
1. Identity Profile
Winery: Ernesto Catena Vineyards.
Origin: Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina.
Vintage: 2016 (A vintage of great freshness and elegance).
Aging: 16 to 18 months in French and American oak barrels.
Bottle Size: 750 ml.
Composition: A secret blend (suspected Malbec base with contributions of Bonarda or Petit Verdot).
2. Sommelier's Notes
Appearance: Almost black, deep, impenetrable purple color. Persistent and dense tears.
Nose: Complex and changing. Notes of ripe blackberries, dark chocolate, tobacco, and a spicy touch reminiscent of cloves and black pepper.
Palate: Voluptuous entry. Ripe and velvety tannins that fill the palate. The acidity of the 2016 vintage provides a masterful balance, leading to a long, smoky, and very seductive finish.
3. Wine Architecture
4. Pairing and Suggested Moments
Gastronomy: Its potency requires dishes with character. It pairs extraordinarily well with peppered red meats, braised lamb, pasta with intense mushroom sauces, or a long-cooked stew. It is also a great companion for blue cheeses or chocolates with a high cocoa percentage.
Suggested Moments:
- Romantic Dinner: The name and concept of the wine are the perfect icebreaker for a special evening.
- Business: A prestigious wine that demonstrates sophistication and openness to creative proposals.
- Gift: Due to its iconic label and the mystery of its content, it is a gift that never fails.
- Premium Barbecue: Accompanies cuts like Rib Eye or New York with complete integration.
- Special Celebration: To toast to the unexpected and shared successes.
- Family Meal: To accompany a Sunday barbecue where wine is the center of conversation.
frequently asked questions (FAQS)
What grapes are in Alma Negra Misterio?
It's a winery secret. Ernesto Catena chooses not to reveal them to encourage a tasting free of prejudice, although it is known to come from the best vineyards in the Uco Valley.
Is it a strong wine?
It is a full-bodied and structured wine (typical of a great Malbec from Mendoza), but thanks to its aging and the 2016 vintage, the tannins are very polished, making it very pleasant on the palate.
Does it need decanting?
Yes, as it is a 2016 vintage with time to evolve, it is recommended to decant for about 40 minutes for the "Mystery" to open up and express its full aromatic palette.