Finca Sophenia’s 2008 Malbec Synthesis is purple in color with a charming nose of Asian spices, lavender, wood smoke, and black cherry. Seamless on the palate with excellent density, richness, and volume, this concentrated, lengthy effort can be approached now, although it will continue evolving for several years. Importer: Buena Cepa Wines, Miami, FL; tel. (786) 347-9249

Ripe, solid and focused, showing a hefty beam of plum and fig sauce that drives through, while hints of mocha, spice and dark licorice weave in and out. Dense, but polished. Drink now through 2011. 1,100 cases made.??–JM??Region: Argentina / Mendoza / Tupungato Select to Add

Slick and attractive on the nose, with licorice, blackberry, cedar and spice aromas. The palate is clean, crisp, linear and tannic, with zesty, lemony oak in support of smoky, charred berry and coffee flavors. Consistent from head to toe, with a full, toasty finish. Drink now through 2012. ——M.S.(12/31/2010)—— 90