TRAPICHE ICONS MALBEC VINA ADOLFO AHUMADA - 2007

100% Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. Aged in new French oak for 18 months.

TASTING NOTES:

Vibrant purple color with ripe plum, black cherry, mocha, spice, pepper, incense and black currant. Pure, concentrated, structured, balanced and rich. Some tart acidity on the finish.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

91+ PTS

High end Malbec that delivers on its promise of quality. Complex with sweet tannins and fresh fruit. One of the great Malbecs in the marketplace. Retails for $55.

MICHEL TORINO MALBEC DON DAVID - 2008

100% Malbec from Cafayate Valley, Argentina.

TASTING NOTES:

Deep red color with aromas and flavors of plum, grape jam, raisin and tobacco leaf. Spicy and balanced with black currant and vanilla on the finish.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

88 PTS

Solid expression of the grape and region. Good depth of flavor, length and character. Retails for around $16.

CUMA MALBEC - 2010

100% Organic Malbec.

TASTING NOTES:

Purple-red color with a grape jam nose. Plum, dates, charred oak, herbs and vanilla on the palate. Soft with a some sharp alcohol on the finish.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

86 PTS

Nothing too special here but a solid Malbec for $13. If organic is important to you, this is a decent offering.

TRAPICHE OAK CASK MALBEC - 2008

100% Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina.

TASTING NOTES:

Dark, vibrant red color with big and bold blackberry flavors and aromas. Very nice oak and vanilla accents a deep black currant finish. Lush yet powerful.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

87 PTS

For $10 a bottle, this is a great little wine that packs a punch. Great entry level wine for those who enjoy this varietal or are looking to sample it for the first time.

TRAPICHE BROQUEL MALBEC - 2008

Argentina Malbec is growing fast in popularity. My next series of reviews are going to focus primarily on this grape as we embrace Malbec Madness as Spring arrives.

100% Malbec from Mendoza.

TASTING NOTES:

Purple red color. Medium bodied. Wild berries on the nose with creamy vanilla, black fruit and jam on the palate. Soft tannins, rich with mocha notes.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

88 PTS

Great mid-priced Malbec. Retails for around $15. Good flavor profile, fruit and balance.