The 2007 Quimera is a multi-regional blend of 38% Malbec, 24% Merlot, 24% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 14% Cabernet Franc aged for 12 months in 40% new French oak before bottling without fining or filtration (as were all of these wines). Purple-colored, it displays an expressive perfume of cedar, scorched earth, violets, black cherry, and black raspberry. Medium- to full-bodied, this mouth-filling blend is sweetly fruited, complex, layered, and rich. It will continue to blossom for another 2-3 years and drink well through 2022. Achaval Ferrer makes my short list of Argentina’s top producers of Malbec. My longevity estimates are conservative because these wines have no track record; my experience with wines this impeccably balanced and rich is that they will continue on for 25 years and more. Let’s hope purchasers can muster the patience to cellar some of these wines for the requisite time. I was also shown barrel samples of Achaval Ferrer’s 2008s. They look to be equally promising.Importer: TGIC Imports, Woodland Hills, CA; tel. (818) 225-5100

Racy and pure, with creamy raspberry and boysenberry fruit that's nicely driven from behind by graphite and spice notes. The long, lingering finish lets a black tea note chime in. Delicious. Malbec, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2011. 5,280 cases made, 2,500 cases imported.??–JM??Region: Argentina / Mendoza Select to Add

(38% malbec, 24% merlot, 24% cabernet sauvignon and 14% cab franc) Full medium ruby. Aromas of crushed blackberry, licorice, chocolatey oak and clove oil. Supple, sweet and full, but with lively acidity giving excellent delineation to the fresh blackberry and spice flavors. With its polished tannins and note of fruity peppercorn, the finish shows excellent lift.