ARGENTINE MALBEC

[Jerry D Mead]

BEST BUY
WINE OF THE WEEK
Etchart 1996 "Rio de Playa - Argentina" Malbec ($7) Malbec is one of the five major Bordeaux red grape varieties and it is often used as a blending grape in France and California. But there's something about this grape in Argentine soil. There, it tends to make better wine than either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and is more popular with the locals as a result. The fact that it is not as well known here is one reason it can be sold at such bargain prices. This example is a delicious red with mostly berry flavors and hint of something floral (violets?). At once rich and mouthfilling and yet velvety soft. It is a wine that will appeal to Merlot fanciers and might well appeal to folks who think they don't like red wine. Case purchases highly recommended. Rating: 89/96