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An Argentine Bargain
Courtesy of
30 Second Wine Advisor
By Robin Garr
Following up on
Monday's discussion about finding bargains in Bordeaux, a region
not currently known for wine value, let's take a quick look today at
an exceptionally fine low-price wine from Argentina, where excellent
quality-price ratio abounds.
This is another Malbec, a grape variety that I've been checking
out fairly regularly these days. As you'll recall, it's
traditionally a minor player in the Bordeaux blend, but one that the
Argentines have adopted in its own right and made a national
trademark. Fine with grilled meat and poultry, excellent with pizza,
Malbec's popularity may stem from its quaffability, its affinity
with a variety of food, and, of course, the affordability of most
labels.
Today's wine, Villa Mendoza, is imported to the U.S. by
Laurel Glen, one of my favorite California wineries. At a sale price
of $7, it's a remarkable bargain, as it's good enough to represent a
fair value even at twice that price.
VILLA MENDOZA 1999 MENDOZA (ARGENTINA) MALBEC ($6.99)
Very dark ruby color, with a ripe plummy scent laced by whiffs
of licorice, full and appetizing. Ripe and juicy, approachable fruit
nicely structured with crisp fresh-fruit acidity. Excellent wine,
remarkable value. U.S. importer: Laurel Glen Winery, Santa Rosa,
Calif. (July 17, 2002)
FOOD MATCH: Ripe fruit and cleansing acidity make it a
very good match indeed with roast chicken.
VALUE: A wine of this complexity and balance at this price
ranks as one of the top values of the year.
WEB LINK: Laurel Glen's Website is:
http://www.laurelglen.com
There doesn't seem to be any information about Villa Mendoza
there, but you'll find a useful "Where to purchase wines" page,
including links to U.S. and international distributors, at:
http://www.laurelglen.com/purchase.html |
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