March 18, 2011

Llama Malbec 2008

Wow. It's been a year since I last posted to this blog. Ahh, how I've missed it. It's definitely time to get back. And this Malbec seems like a great start.

I was very surprised to realize that I've never written about a Malbec before. Maybe it's because I can never quite decide how I feel about them. My father seems to prefer the Argentine Malbec's, of which this is one, and I do think he'd enjoy this bottle.

Malbec is a thin-skinned grape, which needs more sun and heat than other varieties. It is described as having a plum-like flavor and its intensity and color makes it ideal for combining with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Though originally grown in France, Malbec is now becoming very popular as an Argentine varietal.

This Llama Malbec 2008 is from the Mendoza region of Argentina, which is supposed to produce something like 60% of Argentina's wines. What I thought was interesting about this wine is that the grapes are grown at the base of the Aconcagua mountains, which means pollution-free air, with clean, melting snow for irrigation, and it is also harvested by hand.  Even more interesting is that apparently the Argentine Malbecs are "unfiltered and unstabilized in the traditional artisan style to preserve subtle aromas and flavors, while promoting richness, body and color." I'm always interested in trying wines that are created in the old ways.

As far as the flavor goes, it is tannon-y, and plumy, and a little spicy, though not overly so. I did like that it doesn't linger in your mouth, but leaves it crisp and clean. And I suppose my now empty glass speaks for itself!

It ranges around $16/bottle, so not too bad. Anthony also brought home a bottle of the San Polo Mozzopane Sant' Antimo. Yum! His guests bring him the best stuff!