Marichal, Canelones (Uruguay) Tannat 2011

This is an excellent rendition of Tannat, which has become a star performer in Uruguay much as Malbec has risen to stardom in Argentina.  In both instances, the grape varieties remain performers of disputed quality in their place of origin — southwestern France — but show fuller flavor and more approachable structure in South America.  This features dark-toned fruit recalling blackberries and black cherries, with a nice little whiff of wood up top and grippy but not coarse tannins in the finish.  Pair this with grilled meat (exactly as they would in Uruguay, which boasts the world’s highest per capita consumption of meat).