The 2012 Bonarda Old Vine Reserve is about as good an example of this varietal that one will find. Its saturated purple color is accompanied by an exceptional bouquet of mulberry jam, spring flowers and loads of berry fruit. Although it was aged 12 months in French oak, there is no hint of oak, only super fruit, medium to full body, and a terrific mouthfeel as well as aromatics. This crowd-pleaser should drink nicely for another 2-3 years. Maipe is one of my favorite value selections from Fran Kysela as the wines are exceptionally well-made, and sell for a song.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate (Issue #208, August 2013), 91 pts
The 2014 Maipe Bonarda Argentina Reserve was sourced from old 50-year-old parras/pergola vines and newer 13-year-old plantings in the classical Agrelo zone of Mendoza. It has the telltale balsamic notes of the variety, perhaps a herbal touch that somehow made me think of Bordeaux grapes. There is some rusticity, perhaps a touch of forest floor that is faintly musty and is a character I associate with the grape. The palate is ripe and round, with polished tannins and moderate acidity. This is chewy, pleasant and easy to drink with a slightly warm finish. - Luis Gutierrez"
"Dry, earthy berry aromas are lusty and integrated. This has a crisp snappy punchy mouthfeel that's driven by lively acidity. Savory, salty flavors of berry fruits, hard spices and tomato finish with scrubbing acidity and good length."