Malbec is one of the real stars of the Rogue Valley because it reaches an expression that is unlike any of our contemporary terroirs either in the US or abroad. This wine comes the east side of our Malbec block that has a slight southeast slope so it ripens just a bit later than the rest of the block and was harvested on October 8. The resulting wine is fully ripe, but very well balanced with moderate alcohol and, most importantly for our Estate Reserve tier, restraint. After 22 months aging in 71% new, 14% 2-year old French oak sourced exclusively for Padigan it shows typical varietal characteristics of blueberry pie filling, pencil lead, fresh boysenberries, violets, and graham cracker. While rich and medium-full bodied, the wine is buoyed by well-integrated acidity that lifts the fruit on the finish while allowing the wine to linger effortlessly. We suggest thinly sliced pepper crusted NY strip with peppercorn demi and blistered red potatoes. Drink 2024-2030.