2024 Ernesto Catena Padrillos Malbec

Ernesto Catena’s Padrillos Malbec is a great way into the world of Mendoza reds - generous, smooth, and made for easy drinking. The fruit comes from organically farmed vineyards in the Uco Valley, and while this is a simple wine in all the right ways, it still shows the care and personality behind it.

Padrillos, meaning “stallions”, is a nod to Ernesto’s polo background and his laid-back approach to making wine that’s full of life. This Malbec is all about ripe red and dark fruits, with a little herbal twist and just enough tannin to keep things tidy. It’s soft, savoury and super versatile - built for relaxed nights in or casual dinners with friends.

There’s no heavy oak or overextraction here, just bright fruit, good texture and a clean finish. A lovely mid-week red that punches well above its price tag.