Wine Review: Colome` 2010 Estate Malbec, Argentina

Colome` is a red wine blend of 85% Malbec, 8% Tannat, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Syrah and 2% Petit Verdot. This wine has a deep dark garnet color. The nose is filled with dark fruit aromas like blackberries, black cherries and raspberries. There is a floral aroma that smells like the cutting of a flower stem. I know this may seem strange, but it added a complexity to the nose. There are also some spice notes to round out the nose of this delightful wine. The palate has those same dark fruit flavors with a hint of cocoa and tobacco to create structure, and those spice notes that are found in the finish. This is serious Malbec, one that could rival a Cabernet Sauvignon with its depth of color, mouth feel and structure. I would pair this wine with a steak, gourmet burger stuffed with aged cheddar or rosemary compound butter, duck, aged cheddar or Cahill Porter Cheese. Note: This wine was a sample provided by the Hess Family http://www.hess-family.com/colome.html. SRP $30.00

Wine Review: Amalaya 2010 Red Wine Blend, Argentina

This wine is a blend of primarily Malbec 75%, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Syrah and 5% Tannat. The wine is a wonderful dark ruby color. The nose is filled with ripe dark fruit aromas of black cherries and raspberries and hints of cocoa. The palate has those ripe dark fruit flavors, which makes this wine approachable to drink alone or to be paired with food. The palate also has hints of dusty cocoa, and a hint of lead, which gives this juicy red wine some structure. There are also notes of white pepper on the finish. The tannins are smooth, making this an easy wine to sip while cooking dinner. This wine would be great with a slow cooked pork roast with a few sage leaves in the pan. It would also pair well with barbecue ribs glazed with a sweet and smokey barbecue sauce. Grilled burgers, and pork chops, especially on a charcoal grill would be an excellent pairing along with mild cheeses. Note: This wine was a sample provided by the Hess Family http://www.hess-family.com/wineries.html. SRP $17.00