Saurus "Barrel Fermented" Malbec – barrel-fermented, characterful red wine
Saurus "Barrel Fermented" Malbec is a carefully crafted red wine that brings together the juicy fruit of the Malbec grape and the refinement of oak barrel ageing. The grapes are harvested by hand so that only healthy, optimally ripe bunches are selected, resulting in a clean, expressive aromatic profile.
Vinification and ageing
Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, where the must undergoes a 5-day maceration on the skins. This process gives intense colour extraction and a rich, fruity character, while preserving the freshness typical of the variety. Malolactic fermentation then occurs in oak barrels, creating softer acidity and a rounder, silkier texture.
After this, the wine is aged for 8 months in a combination of 60% new American and 40% French oak barrels. American oak contributes creamy vanilla, subtle coconut and gentle sweet spice, while French oak adds more restrained, elegant woody, cocoa and toasted notes. This dual oak regime builds a complex, multi-layered aromatic profile.
Colour, aroma and palate
The colour is deep ruby red with a slight purple tint, giving a youthful, vibrant appearance. On the nose, violet-like floral tones are joined by plum and black cherry, enriched by vanilla and cocoa notes from barrel fermentation. As the wine opens up, more spicy and lightly toasted nuances emerge.
On the palate it is medium to full-bodied with well-judged balance. Ripe plum and black cherry fruit are supported by oak-derived flavours of vanilla, gentle toast and a hint of chocolate. Tannins are ripe and fine-grained, while the lively acidity keeps the wine fresh and harmonious, leading to a long, fruit-driven finish.
Serving suggestions and food pairing
This Malbec pairs well with flavourful red meat dishes, grilled beef, spiced pork roasts and semi-mature cheeses. It is best served slightly cooler than room temperature, around 16–18 °C, to showcase both its fruit and oak-derived aromas in balance.
Recommended for wine lovers who enjoy full-flavoured yet approachable, fruit-forward red wines aged in oak, and who wish to explore the deep, spicy-fruity character that defines the Malbec grape.
