Bright ruby-red. Aromas of blackberry, cassis and tobacco leaf are lifted by a violet topnote; higher-pitched and more pristine than the 2016 example. Then juicy and rather refined on the palate, showing a restrained sweetness and good energy to its purple fruit, violet and licorice flavors. Finishes firm and long, with substantial broad, dusty tannins. Perhaps the best vintage yet for this bottling, which was launched in 2014. This wine is reportedly lower in alcohol and lower in acidity than the 2016 bottling. The blend of the 2017 DV Catena Tinto Historico is the same as the previous year, remaining as 72% Malbec, 21% Bonarda and 7% Petit Verdot, since that’s the field blend that is planted in the plot in Lunlunta used for this bottling. 2017 is slightly riper than 2016, yet the wine has kept its freshness and balance. 74,400 bottles produced.
94 Pts James Suckling