Ah Malbec… You know it and quite possibly love it. What’s not to like? Rich and full-bodied with supple tannin, it’s easy to drink on its own but equally delicious with just about any meat you throw on the barbeque.
But Argentina isn’t a one trick pony. If your drinking relationship with this wine-producing giant begins and ends with Malbec, you are denying yourself a whole other world of drinking pleasure.
The conditions that make Argentina so hospitable for Malbec are equally agreeable to other full-bodied reds, like Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah as well as lesser-known heavy weights Tannat and Petit Verdot. Abundant sunshine and a long warm summer encourage grapes to build up incredible ripeness while cool nights help maintain acidity and bright aromas. This difference between day and night time temperatures is due to vineyards’lofty altitudes and becomes more pronounced the higher up you go.
Touring around Argentina during the dog days of summer is thirsty work. At high noon, I can assure you that the last thing you want is a full-throttled red. Thankfully, Argentina has a refreshing trick up its sleeve in the form of Torrontés. Gaining recognition as Argentina’s second flagship grape, this aromatic and perfumed white provides juicy relief from the reds whenever needed.
I propose a handful of wines to get to know Argentina a little bit better. Once you’ve worked your way through these, Malbec will always welcome you back with open arms if you crave something more familiar.
2013 Alamos, Chardonnay • Mendoza, Argentina • $13.29
Toasted nuts, tropical pineapple and luscious peach with toffee and some buttery toast on the finish. Yup, there’s oak here, but it isn’t overdone. Weighty though never tiring, this Chard is made for grilled corn on the cob and robust white fish.
2014 Colomé, Torrontés • Valle Calchaquí, Salta, Argentina • $23*
While most of Argentina’s wine is produced in Mendoza, the very best Torrontés hail from Salta. In the northern reaches of the country, this region boasts the highest altitudes in the world lending incredible intensity and freshness. With beautiful aromas rose petal, orange blossom and honey, the Colomé is a particularly refined example. On the palate, yellow plum is offset by grapefruit zest and a clean salty tang. Serve up some spicy fish tacos.
2013 Masi, Passo Doble • Tupungato, Valle de Uco, Argentina • $13.99
So I’m cheating a bit because there is some Malbec in the blend. However, the addition of partially dried Corvina grapes imparts a slightly different character. Think prune, baked cherries and red liquorice along with black pepper, vanilla and soft caressing tannin. A worthy partner for ribs.
2013 Bodegas Escorihuela, ‘1884’ Syrah Reservado • Mendoza, Argentina • $15.99
Full-bodied and meaty with flavours of plum, chocolate and raspberries. Hints of grilled herbs and leather linger at the end. While it’s totally charming on its own, the 1884 Syrah is a good companion to bring along to a sausage fest.
2012 Famiglia Bianchi, Cabernet Sauvignon • San Rafael, Mendoza, Argentina • $17.49
Let me introduce you to another robust alternative to Malbec. This decidedly savoury and earthy Cab is dominated by cedar and coffee with cassis, green peppers and cherries underneath. Serious structure demands a juicy steak.
*Private wine stores only, prices may vary. All other wines available at BC Liquor Stores. Prices exclusive of taxes.
