Malbec
Malbec, sometimes called Côt or Auxxerois, is a 2,000-year-old black and thick-skinned grape variety with quite a history. Although Malbec originated in France, today it is often celebrated in association with Argentina. Malbec produces a full-bodied and deep coloured red wine known for its ripe plum flavours and notes of dark fruit such as blackberries and dark cherry. Thanks to its dark and inky color, Malbec earned itself the nickname "Black Wine". In particular, Argentinian Malbecs have a fruit-forward, juicy style with a reputation for richness balanced by high acidity and round, soft tannins.
The Flight - 4 to 8pm $16 for 5 pours with 3 additional wines for purchase
Santa Julia + Malbec 2024 Argentina $13 - Violet-intense purple, concentrated and bright. A complex nose with varietals notes of ripe, fruits, figs, prunes, jam and raisins. A good body, with sweet tannins and well balanced by acidity. A lingering and complex finish.
RJ Videos MDZ Malbec 2023 Argentina $14 - This 100% Malbec showcases the best and classic qualities of Mendoza. The nose comes alive with hints of mocha, blueberry, cherries, and rose petals that lead to a rich mouth feel held up by a good structure and smooth tannins.
Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2023 Argentina $16 - Intense and lively red-purple color. Intense red ripe fruit aromas such as prunes and cherries, with black pepper and tobacco. Can also detect chocolate, cherry liqueur, and spicy notes.
Ernesto Catena Tahaun Malbec Argentina 2022 $19 - The name "Tahuan" is inspired by the Inca word for "The Found Lands United," reflecting the winery's mission to honor the ancient culture. On the nose the wine offers lots of toasty aromas, but then, after only a few minutes, the aromas of fresh and juicy red fruits -such as strawberry and cherry- take center stage. There are also intriguing hints of wild flowers and violets.
Clos la Coutale Cahors 2022 France $21 - A robust, tightly coiled rouge, lifted by an impressive freshness that is balanced by notes of dark fruit, plum, earth, and eucalyptus.
Bonus Wines
Maal Biolento Malbec Luyan de Cuyo, Argentina 2022 $25 - The 2022 Malbec Biolento is sourced from old vines in Las Compuertas, Luján de Cuyo. Partially aged for six months in used barrels, this purple wine reveals crystal-clear aromas of plums, white pepper and a touch of mint. Rich and plush, with supple and velvety tannins, the smooth palate bursts with flavor and offers a long-lasting expression of pure fruit character. 95 points Vinous
Novelty Hill Malbec Stillwater Creek Vineyard Columbia Valley, Washington 2022 $26 - A deeply colored, expressive wine with inviting aromas of wild blueberry, black cherry, and ripe plum, layered with subtle hints of violet and baking spice. The palate is plush and concentrated, offering juicy dark fruit and a thread of cocoa, framed by polished tannins. Smooth and balanced, the finish is long and refined.”
Chateau du Cedre Cahors Cedre Heritage 2021 $29 - This deep, inky red practically shouts blackberry and liquorice from the glass. It comes from Cahors, where Malbec is the star grape, and it shows off all that powerful, dark-fruited character. The vineyards bask in warm sunshine, ideal for ripening grapes to perfection, and a touch of oak adds a whisper of spice.