The 2006 Altimus is composed of 45% Malbec, 37% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Bonarda and 6% Tannat aged for 18 months in new French oak. It delivers a complex nose of pain grille, pencil lead, mineral, black cherry, and blackberry liqueur. This is followed by a medium to full-bodied, elegant wine with ripe flavors, good depth, and a pure, lingering finish. It will continue to unfold over the next 2-3 years and be at its best from 2010 to 2018. Michel Torino is located in Cafayate, the home of the Torrontes grape, at 5100 feet of elevation. Importer: Frederick Wildman & Sons, New York, NY; tel. 800-RED-WINE; fax (212) 355-4719; www.frederickwildman.com

Weird blend that works. Intense cassis, cherries, leather and leaf notes. Full bodied with lots of tannins, but balanced.

A unique northern Argentinean blend made from Malbec, Cabernet, Bonarda and Tannat. It’s wide-bodied, with a lot of tannin and stewiness. In between, there’s tobacco aromas and flavors along with tomato, roasted berry, pastiness and rootiness. A deep, tannic load that requires grilled meat or cheese.——M.S.(8/1/2011)—— 87