2004 Lorca Malbec Opalo Vistaflores

Carlos at Firehouse 12 has a fever, and the only prescription is not more cowbell, but rather, Malbec. Just about every time I visit Firehouse, 'Los whips out some new Malbec that he is completely in love with. I can honestly say I've yet to have the same Malbec twice -- and none of his suggestions have been bad.
Thursday night, he pulled out 2004 Lorca Malbec Opalo Vistaflores ($-$$). And, as usual, there was no disappointment. Another Argentinian wine from Mendoza, this red hails from the Vistaflores vineyard. This vineyard is actually the site where Clos de los Siete is bottled, and the Lorca Malbec has not escaped the influence of Michel Rolland (insert sound of angels' trumpets).
The Vistaflores vineyard sits high in the Andes, where the vines are vertically trained, rather than set upon trellises. The "bushes" are trimmed often to minimize yield, but maximize quality.
The wine itself is lively, without being overbearing or too fruity. It hints at blueberry and apple. The tannins are smooth. The wine has a very Old World feel. It is unfiltered, and aged in concrete and stainless steel, as opposed to oak.
Buy this wine as an alternative to higher priced items such as Clos de los Siete or Cuvelier los Andes (mentioned before). They've got a full case, and per the norm, will probably not replace it, so you'll need to get down there ASAP.
Firehouse is also serving up the Tannat Reserva from Bodegas Carrau by the glass (previous review).