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"A Farwell to Summer BBQ" with Malbec Tasting
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Tasted September 10, 2010 by YWG Wine Guy with 537 views
Introduction
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...
Flight 1 - The Malbecs (4 notes)
Red
2008 Crios de Susana Balbo Malbec
87 points
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.
Red
2008 Susana Balbo Malbec Signature
88 points
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.
Red
2008 Bodega Melipal Malbec Ikella
88 points
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.
Red
2008 Bodega El Esteco Malbec Don David Reserve
88 points
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.
Flight 2 - Odd Balls... (2 notes)
For fun tried North African here and a Torrontes from Susana Balbo.
White
2009 Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontés
86 points
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.
Red
2005 Domaine Neferis Carignan-Syrah Chateau Defleur
85 points
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.
Closing
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!