Bodega DiamAndes, Valle de Uco (Mendoza, Argentina) Malbec 2010

The Bonnie family who owns the Cru Classé Graves property, Château Malartic-Lagravière, have shown, with their project in Argentina, that their talents are not limited to Bordeaux. Their Argentine wines are a unique and stunning combination of New World fruitiness and Old World structure. This one, a marvelous blend of Malbec (90%) and Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot, is big and juicy, but not overdone. The addition of other varietals to Malbec, even in small amounts, increases the complexity enormously. Nicely balanced, oak aging adds a touch of elegance without being overt and dominating. Moderate tannins are in keeping with the wine’s robust style and means it’s far better suited for the dinner table than as an aperitif. Bring on the beef.