If you are not aware of this varietal from Argentina, you might want to know that there are other red wines from Argentina besides Malbec. You might have tasted the Bonarda grape before and not known it because it also goes by the name Charbono. The bulk of Bonarda’s I have tasted from Argentina usually come across as good but simple wines. This one from Mairena rises above that distinction offering complexity and depth of expression. The aromas are distinct and complex dark berry with chocolate nuances, the body is full and the texture is pleasant. The oak regimen is integrated well and marries the vanilla undertone of the barrel to the chocolaty, plum and berry flavors of the grape making this a tasty package. This wine will be well suited for a lot of different savory meaty smoky dishes as well as chocolate or berry desserts.
Rating: Excellent (90) | $20 | 13.0% ABV
Photo credit: vignauvavino.blogspot.com
Well I’ve learnt something this fine Monday morning! That the bonarda in Argentina is not the same bonarda as in Piemonte in Italy. I always wondered how the same grape could work in two extremely different climates. Although I guess Savoie is still pretty different to Mendoza…
April 17 is World Malbec Day – the perfect excuse to celebrate Argentina’s wonderful wines!
Shawn,
Why wait, make today Your “World Malbec Day”