A pungent aromatic brew of stewy plum, burnt rubber, grilled meat and leather leads to a high-acid, spiky palate featuring herbal plum and tangy black currant flavors. Packs punch on the nose and throughout, with aggressiveness at all check points. ——M.S.(11/1/2011)—— 88

The 2004 Encuentro is a blend of 53% Malbec and 47% Merlot sourced from 65-year-old vines in La Consulta. It spent 12 months in new French oak. Dark ruby/purple in color, the nose exhibits a hint of green olives as well as black currant and blackberry. This leads to a structured wine with tannin to resolve, decent flavors, and moderate length. Drink it over the near term before the fruit fades. The Rutini winery, now owned by Nicolas Catena, was founded in 1885 and currently owns vineyards in five different regions of Mendoza.Importer: Pasternak Wines, Harrison, NY; tel. (800) 946-3110; www.pasternakwines.com

Not many 2004 Argentine wines are still on the market, and yet this isn’t showing any age. In fact, it’s racy and a little sheering, with citric acidity that’s keeping it fresh, firm, vital and lively. Flavors of zesty berry fruits come with a touch of oaky vanilla, but not too much. Very nice for a mature blend of Malbec and Merlot. ——M.S.(12/31/2010)—— 89