The 2012 Zeta is a blend of mostly Malbec from Altamira and some 10-15% of Cabernet Sauvignon from Gualtallary. This was previously a very traditional wine. However, the 2012 has seen a dramatic change. It used to be quite ripe and marked by new oak and now it's basically the opposite. Even in this warm vintage there is very good freshness (it has 14.5% alcohol) and only a small percentage of new oak is used with the rest kept in used barrels and cement vats. This might have extra complexity from the Cabernet that also adds backbone to the Malbec. Sebastian likes Cabernet from Gualtallary, because it retains the freshness. Quite a change even for the 2011, though surprisingly enough Sebastian tells me he considers 2012 a fresher vintage than 2011. 35,000 bottles produced.

A ripe red, with velvety texture to kirsch and wild berry notes that expand with layers of mocha, smoke and spicy on the creamy finish. Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Tempranillo. Drink now. 2,500 cases made, 500 cases imported.??–NW??Region: Argentina / Mendoza Select to Add

The 2008 Zeta is composed of 73% Malbec and 27% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 14 months in new French oak. This broad-shouldered blend has plenty of material but is currently austere and tannic. Whether it will ultimately come into balance remains to be seen. Drink this big wine in its youth while it retains its fruit.Importer: Adam Sager, Winesellers Ltd., Niles, IL; tel. (847) 647-1100

Zuccardi’s 2007 Zeta is composed of 68% Malbec, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 14% Tempranillo and aged for 14 months in new French oak (for the Malbec and Cabernet) and new American oak (for the Tempranillo).A glass-coating opaque purple color, it offers up an already complex aromatic array of balsam wood, spice box, tobacco, violets, incense, black cherry, and blackberry. Full-bodied on the palate with layered fruit and spicy flavors, it contains enough structure to evolve for 3-4 years and will deliver peak drinking from 2013 to 2022. Importer: Adam Sager, Winesellers Ltd., Niles, IL; tel. (847) 647-1100