Susana Balbo’s Latest, Classy Releases from Dominio del Plata

93
Signature Brioso White Blend Valle de Uco 2017 13% $24
This dazzlingly fragrant white from Susana Balbo is a new release from Valle de Uco’s Altamira. It’s made of 45% Sémillon with similar proportions of Torrontés and Sauvignon Blanc. Its nose is commanded by the lychee-driven Torrontés dashed with grassy Sauvignon Blanc.  The dramatically broad and textured Sémillon leads its palate. It’s sappy and sassy with the lightest touch of viscosity, likely aided by four months of French oak aging in 60% new and 40% once used barrels, and vivid acidic refreshment. This is a dynamic and unusual white from Argentina. It is super fun to sip and very easy on the wallet, too.
Drink: 2018-20

92
Signature Brioso Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo Single Vineyard 2016 13.5% $45
This berry-scented blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Cabernet Franc, 16% Malbec and 7% Petit Verdot is bottled unfined and unfiltered. It is fervently youthful with peak-summer blackberry ripeness lifted by scents of evergreen fronds. Similarly, while nicely ripe fruit stands center stage, herbal and minty chocolate tones flank the palate perimeter. This concentrated, ambitious wine with curvy, sculpted tannins almost turns a touch cloying moving into the solid finish. Happily, the fresh, lingering finale is splashed with minerally notes keeps the palate primed for another sip. 
Drink: 2018-22