Wine Advocate 92
"The 2011 Luca Malbec comes from three vineyards in the Uco Valley in Altamira, La Consulta and Gualtallary that have an average age of 46 years. It is aged for 16 months in French oak (60% new). It has a floral bouquet of wild strawberry, raspberry, rhubarb and a touch of Hoi Sin that is well-defined. The palate is medium-bodied with fine, dry tannins on the entry that lend this Malbec a classic feel. It is very well-balanced and harmonious, with light strawberry, balsamic and pomegranate notes on the minerally finish. This is a superb Malbec. Drink 2013-2020."

"Laura Catena, daughter of Argentine wine pioneer Nicolás Catena, has a vision of creating a new breed of Argentine wines: small quantities, artisan quality, and true to their individual terroirs. She starts with some of Argentina’s best fruit from low-yield, high elevation vineyards. State-of-the-art winemaking and oak aging (primarily French) elevate the wines to a quality level demanded by true wine connoisseurs. The final varietal blends deliver power along with complexity and finesse. They are the ultimate expression of rigorous vineyard management, viticultural experimentation, strict irrigation controls, skilled winemaking, and a quest for quality at any cost. Her current releases include Syrah, Beso de Dante, Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay.

Luca is named after Laura Catena’s son. The family crest (the McDermott family) that appears in the label’s background is that of Laura’s husband, Dan. Laura is continually inspired by the synthesis of cultures in her own family, and this international inspiration infuses the style and quality of her wines. Luis Reginato is the winemaker at Luca Winery as of the 2002 vintage. Luis is young, but is already a highly trained and respected vineyard consultant and winemaker with long experience at his family's winery in Mendoza. Laura Catena has a knack for spotting up and coming talent, and Luis' wines are already garnering high praise from U.S. wine critics. Definitely a winemaker to watch."~Distributor Notes