2008 Achával Ferrer Malbec

Specs:

2008 Achával Ferrer Malbec

Mendoza

Argentina

14.4 % Alcohol

100% Malbec

$19.00

Notes:

Argentina and Malbec go hand and hand in the wine industry and this young Malbec is a nice starting off point for exploring the region and its offerings. Because of Mendoza's high-altitude location and relatively arid climate the grapes tend to be quite acidic however retain their rich and ripe fruit flavors.

In the glass, the wine is inky and opaque with ruby purple coloring and little rim variation. The producer of this wine chose not to filter its juice in order keep the integrity of the flavors used to produce this wine. The nose is clear and fruit forward with aromas of stewed blue and dark fruit like blueberry, blackberry, huckleberry and plum. Scents of vanilla, violets and some herbal characteristics are also present with a hint of smoke and oak. In the mouth, the wine has a full and rich mouthfeel with the tannins nicely rounded out and balanced. The wine is dry with acid on the higher end and concentrated flavors of blueberry pie and tobacco. The taste on the palate stays true to the aromas on the nose and has such a beautiful sensation of sun ripened fruits with some additional savory characteristics of herbs and spice. The finish is nice and prolonged with the fruit and vanilla bringing the wine to a close.

This wine is young and is meant to be consumed in just that way. I would pair this wine with hearty meats that you would find in your typical Argentinian fare. Fire roasted beef steaks, grilled chicken and sausage, barbecued corn as well as spicy chili would be an amazing complement to this Malbec. Because the flavors of this wine are so concentrated I would definitely decant this and let it sit a bit before drinking.

2008 Don Miguel Gascón Malbec

Specs:

2008 Don Miguel Gascón Malbec

Mendoza, Argentina

13.9 % Alcohol

100% Malbec

http://gasconwine.com/

$14.00

Notes:


For tasters looking to branch out of the usual New World wines into something more global; a varietal like Malbec is a good introduction. This winery is one of the oldest Malbec producers in their region and prides themselves on hand-picked, hand-made wines.

I would suggest decanting this wine as it needs time to breathe before first taste. After about 20-30 minutes it had fully opened up. The color of this wine, like most Malbecs, is a deep purple plum which mirrors its taste. The aroma and taste of the wine is of cherry, plums, "fruit roll-ups", dry fruits, pepper and a hint of anise and clove. For a young wine the smells and flavors are quite bold especially after spending only 7 months in barrels. The texture is rich, velvety, thick and round. You will first notice the fruit on your palette with a spicy peppery long finish.

This wine may be a bit bold and overpowering for most foods however I think it would perfectly a thick slice of beef or a rich chocolate dessert. I enjoyed it solely on its own and was very pleased. For the price it is hard to pass up. This wine can be purchased at local Trader Joe stores or online through the winery.