Country: Argentina
Region: Mendoza
Sub-Region: Valle de Uco
Varietal: ~ 73% Malbec and ~ 27% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Producer & Region: Bodegas Salentein — high‑altitude vineyards in the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina.
Blend / Composition: Primarily a blend of Malbec (~73%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (~27%).
Vinification / Ageing: Grapes hand‑picked from old vines on high altitude terraces; the wine was matured around 24 months in French oak.
On opening, the 2015 Gran VU shows a complex and layered aromatic profile, reflecting both grape ripeness and extended oak ageing:
Dominant notes of ripe black fruits — blackberry, cassis, black plum, and dark cherry.
Characteristic licorice and menthol / fresh‑mint undertones — adding freshness and a slightly herbal edge.
Warm spice — touches of sweet spice, cocoa or dark chocolate, and subtle oak‑derived notes (vanilla, toast, maybe cedar) providing complexity.
As it opens, a hint of graphite / mineral earthiness, giving a sense of elevation (terroir) and maturity.
Overall — rich, intense and aromatic with a mix of fruit, spice, and a slightly savoury‑mineral dimension.
The 2015 Gran VU is a full‑bodied, powerful wine — yet, thanks to its altitude and oak ageing, shows structure and sophistication:
On entry: generous dark fruit (blackberry, cassis, dark plum), with a noticeable ripeness and density typical of Mendoza Malbec blends.
Mid-palate: the Cabernet Sauvignon portion adds structure, tannic backbone, and a bit of firmness and grip — but tannins are generally described as ripe and well‑integrated, not harsh.
Flavour echoes the nose: dark fruit, licorice, bittersweet cocoa or dark chocolate, tobacco leaf or cigar box, subtle spice — giving complexity and layers.
Texture: Round, generous but balanced. The wine shows a good weight and body, yet retains a sense of freshness and lift, likely thanks to cooler nights at high altitude vineyards.
It manages to blend power with balance — not overripe or jammy (though ripe), but structured and elegant enough for medium-term ageing.
Long and persistent: lingering dark fruit, spice, a gentle graphite/mineral note, and subtle tobacco or cedar on the fade.
Tannins taper smoothly, leaving a polished, slightly velvety aftertaste — making it pleasant even after several minutes.
The 2015 Salentein Gran VU Blend is a rich, nuanced, and expressive Argentinian red — combining typical Malbec fruit intensity with Cabernet’s structure and depth.
It delivers a compelling balance: dark fruit and warmth, spice and complexity, and enough acidity and tannic grip for ageing.
At ~8–10 years of age now, it should be fully integrated and drinking beautifully, with plenty of tertiary depth while still retaining fruit freshness.
It’s a wine that reflects its terroir (altitude + Andean climate) and winemaking care — both powerful and elegant, very drinkable now but with the potential to evolve further.
Ideal drinking window (for 2015): 2023–2030+ (depending on bottle and storage)
15% alc./vol.
92- Wine Advocate
