Drink
Malbec mavens should pay attention to this bottle of Achaval Ferrer, as Pennsylvania has snared a good discount on the 2008 vintage from one of Argentina's most consistent winemakers.
South American malbec is a bold grape with easy mass appeal, but often not much depth at a lower price range. This bottle, knocked down to $16.99 from a usual $28, shows just how interesting malbec can be at a slightly higher tier.
It has all the intensity we've come to expect from a Latin fruit bomb, with a first impression of richly extracted raspberry, dried fruit, and plum. But there's also some finesse to go with that ripe machismo, a bouquet of violets, a flicker of anise and spice, and a bright acidity that clicks on the tongue for a long and cheery finish.
Malbecs are meant to be enjoyed young, so stock up for the holidays. This is one of the season's notable values on quality red.
- Craig LaBan
The 2008 Achaval Ferrer malbec Mendoza (code: 022209) costs $16.99 in Pennsylvania.
