Niner Wine Estates, Paso Robles (California) Malbec 2012

May 13, 2015

By Rich Cook

The nose will get you right up front on this beautiful expression of Malbec, the first I’ve tried from this appellation.  It’s a spot on match for Good Earth tea.  If you’re not familiar, it’s a blend of cinnamon stick , nutmeg and other pie spices.  Of course, since it’s wine, it doesn’t stop there.  Cherry/cranberry jam, pepper, black tea and a mild meaty note round out the aroma profile, and lead you into a palate that is deceptively dry and food friendly, with peppercorn and black cherry up front, and the other elements rounding things out through a persistent finish.  Very nicely done!

Country / Region

California

Appellation

Paso Robles

Grape Variety

Malbec

Color

Red

Vintage

2012

Score

93

Price

US $ 30.00

Producer

Niner Wine Estates