2021 Michel Rolland Clos de los Siete Valle de Uco Malbec Blend

9.1

Clos de los Siete by Michel Roland, Malbec Blend 2021, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina 🇦🇷

Overview
A Bordeaux-inspired blend led by 59% Malbec, 15% Merlot, 13% Syrah, 6% Cabernet Franc, 4% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Petit Verdot, crafted under the vision of Michel Rolland. Compared to the 2019 vintage, the higher proportion of Malbec gives the 2021 greater concentration, depth, and a more distinctly Argentine personality while maintaining its polished French-inspired elegance.

Aromas & Flavors
Ripe blackberry, black plum, cassis, violet, dark chocolate, espresso, graphite, cedar, and sweet baking spices unfold in generous layers. The fruit feels darker and more concentrated, revealing additional complexity with air.

Mouthfeel
Full-bodied with a luscious, velvety texture and beautifully integrated tannins. The extra Malbec brings added richness and depth, while vibrant acidity keeps the wine energetic. The finish is notably longer, more textured, and impressively persistent.

Food Pairings
Argentine asado, grilled ribeye, lamb chops, braised beef, mushroom risotto, aged Manchego, or hard Alpine cheeses.

Verdict
An outstanding evolution of Clos de los Siete that leans into a deeper, more expressive profile without sacrificing balance. Richer, more textured, and exceptionally harmonious, the 2021 stands out as one of the strongest recent vintages of this iconic blend.

Did You Know?
Although Clos de los Siete is inspired by Bordeaux, the increasing prominence of Malbec in recent vintages reflects the confidence of Argentina’s Uco Valley terroir, allowing the region’s signature grape to take center stage while the Bordeaux varieties provide structure and finesse.

🍷 Personal Pick
Having enjoyed both vintages, I found the 2021 even more compelling than the already excellent 2019 (also reviewed in Delectable). The additional Malbec adds a deeper core of fruit, greater texture, and a remarkably persistent finish that elevates the wine into an even more complete and satisfying expression. It has officially become my favorite Clos de los Siete vintage to date.