"A Farwell to Summer BBQ" with Malbec Tasting

Had a few friends round for a little food on the grill, along side 4 Malbec from 2008. Two from same producer, and others non-related. For fun pulled out a Red from Tunsia for interest...

• 2008 Crios de Susana Balbo Malbec 87 Points

  Argentina, Mendoza

  This is the "entry" level Malbec from what sounds like a great female wine maker...is decent for price and what i would expect. Nice light nose of berry fruit and the palate is light/medium bodied with similar berry fruit and light acid/tannin. Finish is nothing complex and is kind of one-dimensional - but that is what you kind of expect and every one enjoyed.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

• 2008 Susana Balbo Malbec Signature 88 Points

  Argentina, Mendoza, Valle de Uco

  The midrange Malbec from producer. Part of malbec tasting. This was very similar, but in all areas, had a little more "oomph". A little deeper complexity on palate with a little more acid/tannin. Is it worth 10$ more than little sister? Hard call.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

• 2008 Bodega Melipal Malbec Ikella 88 Points

  Argentina, Mendoza, Lujan de Cuyo

  Nice, straightforward Malbec here that fits the bill. Dark fruit, a little tight on the palate with some acid/tannin that mellows after a little air. Slightly more complex on the finish than others tonight, but not overly so. I liked the best, but not by much. I would buy more for sure- and great price.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

• 2008 Bodega El Esteco Malbec Don David Reserve 88 Points

  Argentina, Valles Calchaquíes, Salta, Calchaquies

  This was 4th malbec tasted, and also a winner! Deep berry notes on the very fruit forward palate - perhaps a little sweet. Not getting much oak or earthy quality. Rich and tasty.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

For fun tried North African here and a Torrontes from Susana Balbo.

• 2009 Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontés 86 Points

  Argentina, Valles Calchaquíes, Salta

  Similar to other notes, solid Torrontes and i think is a good representation. Wine maker has a good Rep. Went will with some salty seafood. Not getting as much aromatics as others, but similar vibes.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

• 2005 Domaine Neferis Carignan-Syrah Chateau Defleur 85 Points

  Tunisia, Sidi Salem

  Who would have thought? I was ready to not like this - but this little wine made from a French Wine maker in North Africa is pretty good for the low price and the "unique" factor. Very light berry/cherry nose. The palate is light bodied, moderatly fruity with cherry/berry notes. Simple, light, and i think balanced for what you get. Would please most people, but no need to stock up. Likely not worth aging anymore so drink the '05 now.

  Post a Comment / Do you find this review helpful? Yes - No

Surprisingly similar styles between all 4 malbecs, all darn tasty in their own ways. The black sheep was that Tunisian wine - not bad at all, and would not mind drinking more of that or anything else tonight. Hello Fall/Winter!