COLOUR
Red
TYPE
Still
VINTAGE
N/A
GRAPE
Malbec, Bonarda, Cabernet Franc
PRODUCER
Ernesto Catena Vineyards
REGION
Mendoza
CHARACTERISTICS
Body
Full
Sweetness
Dry
Acidity
Medium - High
Finish
Long
Intensity
Pronounced
Tannins
AROMAS & FLAVOURS
ABOUT THIS WINE
Alma Negra, meaning 'Black Soul', is a distinctive wine range from Argentina's Mendoza region, crafted by fourth-generation winemaker Ernesto Catena. The brand is built on a philosophy of mystery and artistic expression, intentionally withholding specific technical details to foster a more personal tasting experience. The M Blend, a flagship red, is a testament to this approach, with its composition often varying and its name open to interpretation. Ernesto Catena, influenced by his family's winemaking legacy, approaches winemaking as an art form, emphasizing quality, unique blends, and sustainable practices. The wines are primarily sourced from high-altitude vineyards in the Uco Valley, a prestigious growing area known for producing exceptional Argentine wines.
ALCOHOL
13.9%
AVG. PRICE
€25
STYLE
Natural
VEGAN
YES
When to drink
Now or Later
Ideal temperature
16-18°C
INTERESTING FACTS
Fact 01
The name 'Alma Negra' translates to 'Black Soul', inspired by the deep color of early Bonarda wines.
Fact 02
The iconic mask on the label symbolizes the wine's hidden identity and encourages personal interpretation.
Fact 03
Ernesto Catena is known as a 'rockstar' winemaker, blending tradition with modern artistic expression.
Fact 04
The 'M' in M Blend can stand for Misterio, Mendoza, Malbec, or magic, leaving its meaning to the drinker.
FOOD PAIRING
Read more
WINE MAKING PROCESS
The M Blend undergoes a pre-fermentative cold maceration for about 22 days, followed by fermentation at controlled temperatures between 24-26°C. Post-fermentation, the wine is aged for 8 to 10 months in a mix of French and American oak barrels, including a small portion of new oak. This process is designed to create a full-bodied red wine with pronounced intensity and complexity, reflecting the producer's artistic and naturalistic approach to winemaking.
