Now that many of the original French grape varietals are under cultivation throughout the world, some countries have started to develop reputations as “specialists” in wine made from particular grapes. This has occurred even while many traditional vintners continue to blend wines from many varietals to achieve their flavor objectives.
One of the most striking examples of countrywide grape specialization is Argentina’s unending work with Malbec. It has now gotten to the point that Argentina has established a huge export business and a devoted following of Malbec lovers. There are even people who prefer this red wine above all others and will always ask for it. So, it is a good idea to keep some of this affordable wine in the rack just to satisfy those requests.
Malbec is a meat wine and especially works well with full-flavored cuts like strip steak. It also goes well with roasts and ribs. Many people describe it as a wine that “hangs on your tongue” like a cheese spread. As such, it also goes very well with cheese, especially those with sharper flavors.
One entry-level Malbec that is offered at World Market and AJs, is Urban UCO 2008 ($12-$16). The label has a couple “Stingish” guys on it, very urban. Enjoy it very slightly chilled (in the fridge for about ½ hour before opening). Malbecs also respond well to decanting to circulate air through them. This one is no exception, decanting enhances its flavors instantly and adds to its “plumbiness”.
If you want to compare with a slightly more expensive Malbec to see how more $$$ gets more body, try a Bodega Colome Malbec from BevMo (about $30).
If you’re a doing a blind tasting with your wine savvy friends, a bottle of Malbec will often “stump the panel”. Malbecs are generally good anytime, with or without food.
Article by Tom Peiffer, Phoenix Wine Shopping Examiner at Examiner.com
View more of Tom’s articles on Examiner.com by visiting his writer’s page.
