Achaval Ferrer “Quimera” 2004
35% Malbec, 30% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc
$42 on Wine-searcher.
Keeper
Beautiful dark, jet black color, to the point that it has very few shades. A bit foggy as well. It is, however, purpling at the edges. Still, the color is gorgeous—obviously a mature, strong wine.
Its aroma is very fresh, a bit like rain or like a fresh forest. It also has notes of mud and dirt—of earth in general. There’s also a slight sourness in the nose, reminiscent of cherries.
The wine is extremely smooth, rather full-bodied, and very drinkable—a pleasure at every point. It has a bit of nice acidity to it that gives it a nice freshness and a tad of spice that balances the tannins. Moreover, it has fantastic complexity. It starts out smooth and a bit acidic, with some notes of fruits, especially black fruits like blackberries. It becomes increasingly oaky and spicy and picks up a bit of balancing, refreshing bitterness. It ends very nicely, with an oaky, spicy, slightly nutty, slightly dark chocolaty, and rather lengthy finish.
9.2/10. For a $40 blended wine, this is complex, delicious, and incredibly drinkable. Very recommended for a taste of Argentina.
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I've also had a chance to taste the Quimera 2006 (just a slight bit worse than this one) and had a barrel tasting of the 2007. The 2004 is by far the best, though.