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“Make it a Malbec”
Over one hundred and fifty years ago an interesting black grape was brought to Argentina from France. Its name the Malbec. Originally grown in southwest France and used as a supporting actor in Bordeaux. The grape was grown extensively in Cahors and was known to make full-flavored tannic wines. Some plantings also exist in California where they are used in the Bordeaux style blends. Living a quite obscure and behind the scenes existence this little known grape was someday going to be a world wide star. Today we know this grape as being the signature red grape of Argentina. The climate of this South American country seems to be ideal for making the Malbec as a single varietal wine. Over the past decade Argentina has shown us that its a world player in not only consistency but also value and quality. If you enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah than this grape is probably for you. The Malbec that hails from Argentina is known for its rich full flavors of dark fruits, fine structure and sometimes a mocha finish. After tasting numerous bottles throughout the years I've come to the conclusion that one of the modern day great wines for the price being offered is defiantly the Malbec out of Argentina. If your looking for a wine to pair with steak, aged cheddar, chili, stew, lamb or just a new full-bodied gem to try than this is the next bottle for you to grab. The timing couldn't be better for exploring the wines from this region because the vintages from 2002 through 2006 for reds are all stellar. Producers are putting out superb examples in many different styles. Here is a list of some of my favorite Malbecs from Argentina that should be readily available to you at a Westside Liquor.
Terrazas Malbec 2006 – A favorite of mine for ripe fruit with a plush mouth feel. Blackberry with a nice touch of spice. A great introduction to this grape at this price point. $11.99 If you enjoy this check out the Reserva for another couple bucks.
Conquista Malbec 2006 – If you want bang for the buck than here it is. This wine grabs best buy in many of the wine magazines. Easy drinking with tons of dark fruits and a complexity you usually don't find in this price range.
Trapiche Malbec 2005 – Year after year this producer puts out excellent wine for the price. Typically a little more prominent with the oak but still very well balanced. Black cherry and more dark fruits with a touch of vanilla and mocha.
Alamos Malbec 2005 – This wine is full of Black cherry and black raspberry. Nice coffee and spice tones on the finish. Great at this price.
Michel Torino Don David Malbec 2005 - Heres a serious wine at not such a serious price. Superb balance of dark fruits with hints of licorice and a finish of toasty oak. Outstanding for the price
Hope this makes for a more enjoyable winter wine experience and remember that the the vintages of “02”, “03”, “04”, “05” and “06” are all superb for the red wines of Argentina. Have fun exploring!
Jeff Anderson
Sommelier
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