BenMarco Expresivo 2022
A striking high-altitude Malbec and Cabernet Franc blend from Gualtallary, combining blackberry, black cherry, violet, graphite, and mineral freshness with remarkable precision and structure.
BenMarco Expresivo 2022 is the flagship wine of the BenMarco range, created by Argentina's pioneering winemaker Susana Balbo. While many Mendoza wines focus primarily on richness and fruit concentration, the BenMarco project was established to showcase the unique identity of Argentina's finest vineyard sites through wines that emphasise terroir, freshness, and precision.
The wine is sourced exclusively from Gualtallary, one of the highest and most sought-after sub-regions of the Uco Valley. Situated at approximately 1,300 metres above sea level, Gualtallary has become famous for producing some of Argentina's most exciting wines thanks to its combination of intense sunlight, cool nights, and distinctive calcareous alluvial soils. These conditions allow grapes to achieve exceptional ripeness while preserving freshness, acidity, and aromatic complexity.
Blackberry, black cherry, cassis, and dark plum are layered with violet, pink peppercorn, graphite, cocoa, dark chocolate, cedar, and subtle vanilla spice. The palate is concentrated yet remarkably fresh, with mineral tension and firm tannins carrying through a long, savoury finish.
For those seeking an Argentine red that combines concentration with sophistication, this is one of the finest examples available at its price point.
Argentina
Mendoza
Blend
750ml
14.50%
2022The 2022 vintage is composed primarily of Malbec (approximately 82–85%), complemented by Cabernet Franc (15–18%). Malbec provides depth, dark fruit, and texture, while Cabernet Franc contributes floral aromatics, freshness, and structure. Together they create a wine that is both distinctly Argentine and remarkably refined.
Fermentation is carried out using indigenous yeasts, helping preserve the authenticity of the vineyard expression. The wine is then matured for approximately 14 months in French oak barrels, around 70% of which are new, adding complexity and texture while allowing the fruit and mineral character to remain at the forefront.
Unlike many heavily oaked New World reds, BenMarco Expresivo is built around freshness and terroir expression. The limestone-rich soils contribute a distinctive stony minerality and linear structure that set it apart from broader, richer Mendoza styles. Critics have consistently praised the wine's balance, energy, and ageing potential, with recent vintages receiving scores in the mid-90s from leading reviewers.
A dry, full-bodied red wine with concentrated black fruit, vibrant acidity, firm tannins, and pronounced mineral freshness. The high-altitude vineyard source creates a style that feels fresher and more focused than many traditional Mendoza reds.
Unlike richer, more opulent Malbecs that rely on weight and oak influence, Expresivo emphasises precision, structure, and terroir expression. The Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift and elegance while the limestone soils provide tension and freshness.
- Appearance: Deep ruby-purple with excellent concentration.
- Nose: Blackberry, violet, pink pepper, graphite, and dark chocolate.
- Palate: Concentrated dark fruit supported by vibrant acidity, mineral freshness, and fine tannins.
- Texture: Full-bodied, structured, and beautifully layered.
- Finish: Long, savoury, mineral, and impressively persistent.
- Grilled Ribeye Steak – The wine's structure and concentration pair beautifully with premium beef.
- Roast Lamb – Excellent with herb-crusted lamb and Mediterranean flavours.
- Venison – The freshness and tannic structure complement game meats exceptionally well.
- Braised Short Ribs – Rich enough to handle slow-cooked dishes and robust sauces.
- Aged Hard Cheeses – Particularly strong with Manchego, Comté, and mature Cheddar.
- Serve at 16–18°C.
- Decant for approximately 60 minutes while young.
- Use a large Bordeaux-style glass.
- Drink now with decanting or cellar comfortably for 10–15 years.
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