Argentina continues to take the lead when it comes to budget friendly Malbec. This offering might jump into your basket in the grocery aisle on packaging alone, and if it does you’ll be equally impressed with what’s inside. Black cherry, green peppercorn and savory meat aromas entice, and the fruit takes the lead on the palate with the other characteristics playing a supporting role. There’s a fair amount of oak here, so go with something fatty when pairing to tame the astringency.
Tall Dark Stranger, Mendoza (Argentina) Malbec 2021
By Rich Cook