Over the last fifteen years, Malbec, Argentina’s “signature grape” has established a position among the world’s most popular wines. And it has helped Argentina to rise to the a position as the planet’s fifth largest wine producer.
Of course, it helps that the wines are user friendly and eminently drinkable – and affordable. Many of the wines can be had at $20 or less. On the one hand, it seems Argentina’s Malbec producers have settled into a comfort zone of affordable, easy drinking reds that increasingly are crowd pleasers. These wines hit the value sweet spot.
Below are several new Malbecs that would be fine choices for everyday drinking. You will get up front, round fruit and lush textures for your money.
Argento produces a range of varietal wines intended to offer a pure expression of the grapes. The 2014 ($14) is characterized by bright fruit and good energy; the 2013 Reserva ($18) excels with purity, vibrancy and elegance.
Bodegas Caro is a collaboration between Nicolas Catena (arguably the most famous Argentinian producer) and the owners of Chateau Lafite. The 2013 “Aruma” ($18), an impressive entry level bottling, has meaty and herbal aromas followed by pure fruit and soft tannins.
Rutini Wines has been recognized as a leader in quality and character ever since its founding in 1885. The 2014 “Trumpeter” ($11), part of the winery’s value line delivers on that promise opening with deep plum and a slight herbal note with delightful freshness. The 2013 “Encuentro” ($20) is even better. Flashy with a sense of sweet fruit, it is elegant with a sense of freshness.
Tomero is a 30-year-old winery well known for value. The 2014 ($17) continues the tradition with juicy red fruits and a touch of pepper.
Trapiche is one of Argentina’s largest and oldest (129 years) producers and the “Oak Cask” series is its value line. The 2014 ($10) is delightfully clean and fruit-driven.
I also found nice wines from two négociants, buyers of wine from a variety of sources. Criterion Cellars produces six wines on four continents. Their 2013 ($14) shows nice fruit and solid structure. Layer Cake makes wines on four continents and in five countries. Their 2013 ($16) impresses with smoky dark fruit intensity.
For a little more money you can find more intense fruit, structure and character.
Like the 2014 Gran Malbec ($30) from Flechas de los Andes. A partnership between a Rothschild family member and the owner of Bordeaux’s Chateau Dassault, is a fine rendering of the variety that has the added advantage of being certified kosher.
Septima is a relatively new winery owned by Spain’s Cordoniu (large Cava producer). The 2014 “Obra” ($25) is delightful with myriad fruit and savory aromas and flavors buttressed with solid tannins.
And for a lot more money you can experience the 2010 Rutini “Apartado” Gran Malbec ($100). That’s right, a $100 Argentinean Malbec. A selection of Rutini’s best barrels, it achieves impressive intensity of fruit with balancing savory notes and a nervy spine.
All in all, an impressive showing. This variety of European origin that has adapted so well to Argentina’s terroir delivers high quality and flavor interest at reasonable (with one exception) prices. Although Argentina’s economy is struggling and the wine industry is not unaffected, we are lucky the country continues to churn out fine Malbecs.