Norton 1895 Malbec

Norton 1895 Malbec is a 100% Malbec red wine from Mendoza, Argentina, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Sourced from high-altitude Andes foothill vineyards between 850 and 1,100 meters above sea level, the 2020 vintage earned 88 points from critics, reinforcing this wine's standing as one of the more dependable values in Argentine Malbec.

Quick Facts: ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Mendoza, Argentina  |  Style: 100% Malbec  |  Producer: Bodega Norton

Production & Heritage

Bodega Norton was founded in 1895 by English engineer Edmund James Palmer Norton in Mendoza's Luján de Cuyo subregion, making it one of Argentina's oldest operating wineries. The estate vineyards sit at elevations between 850 and 1,100 meters, where pronounced diurnal temperature swings—warm days followed by cool nights—slow grape maturation and contribute to deeper color, concentrated aromatics, and balanced natural acidity. The 1895 range, named for the winery's founding year, focuses on showcasing the pure varietal character of Malbec through fresh, vibrant fruit from the estate's younger vines.

Tasting Notes

Aroma: Ripe cherry and blackberry lead the nose, joined by a spicy black pepper lift and subtle powdery, candied berry undertones. The aromatic profile reads sweet and inviting without being heavy.

Taste: Juicy acidity brightens the entry, giving way to a mid-palate of plum and blackberry with a slightly salty mineral quality. Smooth, harmonious tannins provide structure without gripping the palate, keeping everything approachable and fruit-driven. The overall impression is round and medium-bodied.

Finish: Medium in length, trailing off with lingering raspberry and red plum notes. A soft peppery warmth closes things out cleanly, inviting the next sip.

How to Drink Norton 1895

Serve at a slight chill—around 60 to 64°F—to keep the fruit vibrant and the tannins supple. It drinks well on its own or alongside food without requiring any fuss. A classic red wine Sangria benefits from the wine's dark berry core and natural spice. A Kalimotxo—the Spanish red wine and cola combination—turns surprisingly refreshing with the Malbec's fruit-forward character. For something more refined, use it in a New York Sour, where the berry notes float beautifully over whiskey and citrus.

Best For

• Weeknight dinners built around grilled steak or roasted meats
• Introducing a friend to Argentine Malbec for the first time
• Casual entertaining with charcuterie and cheese boards
• Building an affordable South American wine collection

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Norton 1895 taste like? Norton 1895 Malbec delivers ripe cherry, blackberry, and plum flavors with smooth tannins, bright acidity, and a thread of black pepper spice. A slightly salty mineral quality adds unexpected depth beneath the fruit.

How does Norton 1895 compare to Alamos Malbec? Both are entry-level 100% Malbec wines from Mendoza's high-altitude vineyards, with Alamos produced under the Catena Zapata portfolio. Norton 1895 draws from vineyards at 850 to 1,100 meters elevation and scored 88 points on its 2020 vintage, making both strong representations of affordable everyday Argentine Malbec.

Is Norton 1895 good for beginners? Norton 1895 is an accessible starting point for anyone exploring Malbec, with soft tannins, straightforward fruit, and a clean finish that require no prior wine experience to enjoy.

Where is Norton 1895 made? Norton 1895 Malbec is produced by Bodega Norton in Mendoza, Argentina, at the foothills of the Andes mountain range. The estate vineyards sit between 850 and 1,100 meters above sea level, a zone known for warm days and cool nights that promote slow, even grape ripening.

What foods pair well with Norton 1895? Grilled steak and beef empanadas complement the wine's dark fruit and peppery spice. Aged hard cheeses like Manchego echo its savory side. Roasted vegetables with balsamic glaze mirror its natural acidity, and dark chocolate desserts align with the ripe berry character.

What sizes does Norton 1895 come in? Norton 1895 Malbec is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.

Is Norton 1895 worth the price? Norton 1895 sits at the entry level of Bodega Norton's portfolio and the accessible end of Argentine Malbec pricing. With an 88-point score on its 2020 vintage and consistent sourcing from high-altitude vineyards, it delivers reliable quality within its value tier.

Why Norton 1895?

The altitude advantage is real here—vineyards planted between 850 and 1,100 meters in the Andes foothills produce measurably deeper color and more concentrated fruit in Malbec grapes, and Norton 1895 translates that into an honest, uncomplicated glass. The 2020 vintage's 88-point score places it among the more dependable performers in its price class. As a 100% varietal wine with no blending, it works as a clean, direct expression of what Mendoza Malbec fundamentally tastes like. For drinkers who want straightforward Argentine Malbec with genuine regional character and no pretension, this is a reliable benchmark bottle.