Viña Cobos was founded in Mendoza by renowned American winemaker Paul Hobbs, whose fascination with Argentina began in 1988 and ultimately led to the creation of the estate in 1998. From its inaugural 1999 vintage, the winery has become one of Argentina’s most respected producers, with a particular focus on expressing the remarkable potential of Malbec from Mendoza’s finest vineyards. Today, Paul Hobbs remains the winery’s founder and winemaker, working alongside Head Winemaker and Production Manager Diana Fornasero and the wider Viña Cobos oenology team. The estate’s philosophy centres on meticulous vineyard management, minimal intervention and an uncompromising pursuit of quality.

The flagship Malbec is produced from carefully selected fruit from some of Viña Cobos’ finest sites in Mendoza, predominantly Chañares, complemented by old-vine fruit from Marchiori and Zingaretti. The 2018 harvest was carried out between 15 March and 4 May, with rigorous vine and cluster selection before fermentation. The wine was aged for 18 months in French oak, including a significant proportion of new barrels, before being bottled unfined and unfiltered. This careful approach preserves the purity of the fruit while allowing the oak and extended maturation to add depth, structure and refinement.

Deep violet in colour, it is intensely aromatic, with beautifully pure blackberry, blackcurrant and raspberry alongside violet, wild herbs, graphite and subtle black liquorice. The palate is full-bodied and concentrated yet remarkably precise, with layers of dark fruit framed by exceptionally fine, polished tannins. Notes of spice, cocoa and gentle oak add complexity, while vibrant freshness keeps the wine balanced and energetic. The finish is exceptionally long, elegant and persistent, making this a wine that can be enjoyed now but has considerable ageing potential.

The 2018 vintage received outstanding international recognition, including 99 points from James Suckling, 98 points from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate, 96 points from Vinous and 97 points from Tim Atkin MW. These scores reflect the exceptional quality and consistency that have established the estate’s flagship Malbec as one of Argentina’s benchmark fine wines.

For a classic pairing, serve alongside a beautifully grilled Argentine ribeye with chimichurri, where the wine’s concentration and fine tannins complement the charred, savoury character of the beef. For a vegetarian alternative, pair it with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted aubergine and smoked paprika, where earthy, smoky flavours bring out the wine’s dark fruit, graphite and spice notes.