Magnificent Malbecs

August 29, 2008 - (ASHLAND)

Lo Tengo ’06 Malbec
Mellow cherry-cranberry aromas and a trace of fresh cut wood that adds to the fruit without over shadowing it. The color undeniably purple. As with most Malbec's, this one has a soft yet lush structure. Medium body and finish yet firm, nice tannic feel. Earthy dark plum, dark mocha and a slight exotic spicy flavor.
Allyson’s Pairing: Piave Vecchio with La Vecchia Strawberry Jam on La Panzanella Whole Wheat Crackers

Tilia Malbec ‘07
The nose offers dense black fruit aromas with light violet notes and a touch of sweet toast. The mouthfeel is full and rich, with ripe, concentrated black currant and cassis fruit flavors with a touch of chocolate and sweet spice from light oak aging.
Allyson’s Pairing: Aged Sheep’s Milk Manchego with Matiz Quince Paste

Kaiken Malbec ’06
“Purple hue with a fuchsia rim. Smoky black fruit aromas with a hint of chalk. Supple plum and black cherry flavors laced with graphite and pepper. Crisp finish with spicy oak accents. 88 Points.” Wine News
Allyson’s Pairing: Crater Lake Blue Cheese on Fruit Nut Crostini, drizzled with Saba

Viu Manent Secreto Malbec ‘06
One of a handful of South American wineries employing New Zealand winemaking expertise to lift quality and develop high standards. In this case Grant Phelps, ex-Villa Maria winemaker, holds the reins. His impenetrable, purple-hued Malbec is still pretty raw, showing inky blueberry-like fruit, great depth, big grippy tannins and truly macho presence.
Allyson’s Pairing: Idiazabal with La Vecchia Dispensa Pepper Jelly, Fine Cheese Company Sea Salt Crackers

Punto Final ’06 Malbec
“The Malbec grapes are sourced from two mountain vineyards, both planted more than 50 years ago. After this it is aged for 8 months, partly in French barriques, partly in stainless steel. The result is a wine of rich bouquet, lively mouth-feel, lingering flavors of red and black berries with undertones of black pepper and vanilla, and a velvet texture throughout. 90 Points.” - The Wine Enthusiast
Allyson’s Pairing: Garrotxa Cheese from Spain with White Truffle Oil on Petite Toasts

Don Miguel Gascon Malbec ’07
This is a great Mendoza Malbec; flavors are rich, ripe, and chocolaty. There is good acidity and balance as well as nice chewy texture. The wine is a little rustic, with a fair bit of tannic bite, but manageable, especially with food.
Allyson’s Pairing: Tuscan White Bean Dip on Tomato Oregano Crackers