2023 'This is Not Another Lovely Malbec', Matias Riccitelli

The Rebel in Velvet

This is Malbec with a raised eyebrow and a silk-lined jacket. It takes the old idea of big, glossy, overworked Argentine Malbec and politely sets fire to it. In its place comes something brighter, fresher and far more alive: wild raspberry, ripe plum, black cherry and violet, with a little blackcurrant, dried herb and stony earth underneath.

The palate is supple and expressive, with juicy dark fruit, fine tannins and a lovely sappy lift. It has enough generosity to keep Malbec lovers happy, but the real thrill is in the freshness and movement. No heaviness, no make-up, no thudding oak, just pure fruit, floral detail and a clean, energetic finish. A bottle with charm, wit and a very good sense of timing.

For when you want Malbec, but not the usual Malbec.
Pairs with steak frites, lamb koftas, smoky aubergine, beef empanadas, mushroom tacos, or a properly loaded cheeseburger.
If this wine were… a dinner guest, it would be the one who arrives late, tells the best story, and somehow makes the whole table more interesting.

Matías Riccitelli is one of Argentina’s most exciting modern winemakers, part of the new generation proving that Mendoza can be about finesse, altitude and energy as much as power. The son of celebrated winemaker Jorge Riccitelli, Matías founded his own project in 2009 after working in leading Argentine wineries and abroad, building a reputation for wines that are vivid, expressive and deliberately individual. This cuvée captures that spirit beautifully: sourced from the Uco Valley in Mendoza, made from 100% Malbec, unoaked and medium-bodied, it is a fresh, playful and highly drinkable expression of Argentina’s signature grape.