Nico by Luca

Descorchados

The 2020 Malbec Nico by Luca is from a vineyard planted at 5,000 feet above sea level in Gualtallary, Uco Valley and was aged for 20 months in 50% new 500-liter barrels. A rich purple in the glass. The nose has plenty of garrigue to it, with prominent mountain herbs mingling with red and dark fruit such as plum, blackcurrant and violets. The palate is dry and lean, with fine, chalky tannins. A refreshing, juicy red with a savory, almost saline finish. This is a delightful high-altitude Malbec from a warm, dry year. Vinous June 2023

An intense, peppery malbec with tons of blackberries, wet stones, violets and a saline edge. Compact and mineral on the palate with really silky and chalky tannins. Concentrated and broad, but quite juicy and drinkable. Drink or hold. James Suckling April 2023

The Luca wines are fresher and much less oaky than they used to be, typified by the quality of this intensely perfumed Gualtallary Malbec that used genetic material from the Rosas family’s vineyard in La Consulta. Textured and fleshy, it has some subtle reduction, blackberry, fennel and blood orange flavours, fine tannins and well-handled 500-litre barrels. 2024-30 Tim Atkin 2023

Redolent with coffee bean and concentrated berry notes, this brilliant red balances lively acidity against a plush, berry-laden core. Subtle licorice and chalky elements chime in and linger around a late push of cocoa powder and textured tannins. Drink now through 2040. 500 cases made, 240 cases imported. Wine Spectator February 2025

The 2020 Nico By Luca Malbec shows restraint, contained ripeness for a warm year and sweet Malbec fruit with some spicy and smoky undertones and a mixture of flowers, berries and herbs. The palate is medium to full-bodied with abundant and fine tannins. Wine Advocate November 2022