Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Tuesday Tasting: Andean Sky Malbec, 2012

Andean Sky Malbec

Region: Mendoza, Argentina

Vintage year: 2012

Alcohol: 12.5%

Price: $4.99

We love Malbecs at A Bit of  Wine. Can’t you tell? Read some of our  previous posts and pairings where we featured Hinojosa and Alamos. But, we promise that Malbecs aren’t the only tastings we do…well, after this one.

So, here we go. This week’s tasting comes to you courtesy of a recent trip to our local Trader Joes. Who could resist a huge display of this Andean Sky Malbec for only $4.99 a bottle. Even if it was horrible, I knew I could cook with it. So, it was worth the gamble.

The Bottle


This Argentina Malbec comes with a convenient screw top, so no need for that Faucet Corkscrew we featured last month. Nonetheless, the screw top has done the bottle well. Upon first swirl, there is a strong nose of black cherry followed by soft vanilla. The color is a translucent purple.

On the palette, the taste mimics the nose. It has a soft vanilla caramel taste followed by rich black fruits – blackberry & black cherry to be specific. The alcohol isn’t over powering and the body holds its own with a semi-long finish.

While this bottle warrants another three glass tasting. But right out of the bottle, the taste and finish makes for an easy drinking Malbec you can enjoy for a relaxing evening at home or to take to your next block party and enjoy with friends. Since you aren't overwhelmed with strong alcohol, and with the perfectly balanced black cherry and vanilla on the palate, there is no reason to wait. Twist the cap. Pour a glass. Enjoy with your favorite people.

So how would A Bit of Wine rate this one?

Flavor Profile:     8
Drinkability:       8
Affordability:    10
Total:             8.6

Oh, you want a pairing? Try a braised lamb shank with red onion relish with truffled sweet potatoes and onion straws.

Give us your feedback. If you like our Tuesday Tasting, share us with your friends. Tweet us!  Tag us! Or just write a nice comment below. 

Cheers!

Keith



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