When you think of Argentina, what's the first thing that comes to mind? Is it soccer? Maybe not, but I still thought my headline was kinda funny. For me, Argentina immediately brings to mind incredible food and big, spicy reds to go along with it. Malbec specifically...lots of Malbec.
~José Hernández Reserve Red Wine Blend, 2017 from Mendoza, Argentina
I watched an episode of Netflix's "Chef's Table" which featured Chef Francis Mallmann of Argentina. The one-of-a-kind production (the kind of show I would DIE to work on) showcased the chef's homeland and his style of direct-to-flame cooking of meats and veggies, and that episode has stuck with me ever since. A good friend of mine from childhood, Chef Jorge Valazquez (@ChefJorgeTheMeatGuy), has worked with Chef Mallmann on a number of occasions, granting me with an even more in-depth look at the culinary genius' process, even if it is via my friend's Instagram page haha. (Jorge has also worked with the likes of Thomas Keller and actually was "the meat guy"at a respected butcher shoppe in St. Helena, CA)
Secondly, with the unprecedented rise in the popularity of Malbec over the last 20 years, I've been fortunate enough to have, not only a few Argentine Malbecs, but quite a few other blends and big reds that would easily go head-to-head with some of the Napa Valley's finest. Most of those wines came from where?? You guessed it... NakedWines.com .
I think Pope Francis is from Argentina isn't he? How cool is that? And I hear Buenos Aires is a suuuuuper fun travel spot. See...? I start by talking about wine...then food...then the pope and now you have me traveling to Argentina? What just happened?!?!?
The Review: 4/5
The gravitas and old-world edge was the first thing to slap me in the face. Serious maturity and swagger at such a young age? It’s pretty much amazing right off the bat!
We’re talking sultry, reserve-level depth, and I’ll note I opened the bottle just 20 minutes ago. Surprising (and awesome) to say the least.
The nose is just marvelous with black cherry and old, wet oak with a barn wood undertone. A bit of wet leafy tobacco, perhaps?
This is a spectacular blend with spice that slowly reveals itself, and cheeky red fruit (like that black cherry and unripe Japanese plum) combines with an earthy, woody and ever-so-gentle smoky finish.
It's a little dry on the back end, more pinging off the roof of the mouth than the cheeks, but that cellar essence, leather and wood seem to linger and swirl around the nasal passages for a few seconds.
I paired this with some honey chipotle skirt steak...and it. was. magical. Almost kismet.
I would love to let this bottle hide out for a bit, even collect some dust, but that’s just not gonna happen. It’s stupendous right now and should be enjoyed as soon as possible! hahaha
Cheers!!
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