Viu Manent "Estate Collection" Malbec 2008

Presentation: ***
Nose: **
Complexity: ***
Value: ****

Overall: ***

This 2008 Malbec was reccomended to me by a wine department manager in Portland, OR. The nose lacked the more distinct aroma common to a nice bottle of Malbec. The color was rich. The Viu Manent had hints of blackberry, boysenberry, and rasberry with a taste of chocolate and mocha on the finish. The taste in the mouth was nice but not enduring. Perhaps a couple of years cellared would enhance this wine. I found it adequate for an everyday bottle of Malbec but not one to highly reccomend to a friend.

-Greg

Volver 2005 Tempranillo

Presentation: *****

Nose: ***

Complexity: *****

Value: ***

Overall: ****

This is the first of February's month of "World Wines You'll Love" I was stunned by this La Mancha wine--it's 100% tempranillo, and I bought it as an impulse buy when really in the mood for something from Spain a few months back. It's not a cheap bottle, retailing in the ballpark of $20 a bottle. However, this is a case where you indeed get what you pay for. Its dry, complex taste kept unfolding with wonderful earthy flavors. Some mineral flavors, but also tobacco and gentle spice. Anyone who likes California Cabs should try this and see if Spain can't pack a punch in a bottle of red. Would pair wonderfully with steak, lamb, pork, or even a chef salad.

February = World Wines You'll Love!

All this month on Decant This! we'll be exploring wines you'll love from around the world. When winter is upon us here in the midwest, it's a great time to enjoy a special bottle from Spain, Chile, Argentina, Portugal, or even Australia or South Africa. So dig into your cellar or swing by the wine shop and find one of these beauties: they won't dissapoint!