The answer, really good Malbec that’s what!
Back in the early 1980’s with the conflict in the Falklands, the United States had an embargo on lots of Argentinian products. Happily, that was lifted once cooler heads prevailed, to the great benefit of wine lovers. Malbec is Argentina’s thing….it’s claim to wine fame if you will. And quality has never been better and continues to rise.
So when I saw 2009 Bodegas Renacer “Punto Final” Malbec Riserva recently on a wine list for the reasonable price of $25, I jumped at it. Their Tuscan born winemaker, Alberto Antonini, has quite the depth of experience having made wine at Frescobaldi and then being head winemaker at both Col d’Orcia and Antinori. He now is a globetrotting consulting winemaker and sports clients such as Castello di Bossi, Poggio al Tesoro, and Concha Y Toro, among others.
But the Renacer… – as one would expect, it’s dark purplish to black in the glass. The aromas of the wine are captivating. There’s a smokey essence to the dominant black fruits, but adding complexity are leather and licorice with a slight peppery herb note. Flavors on the palate follow the nose and the structure of the wine is full bodied, rich and long. Paired great with cast iron chicken and short ribs. At $25 on the wine list, I’m figuring retail must be about $12-$15 and at that price, a steal worth stocking up on. 91 points.
The shot below is a bit dark, but the best I could do in the restaurant!
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| 2009 Bodegas Renacer Punto Final Malbec Riserva |
I know this comes as no surprise to you, but I happen to think Argentine Malbec is one of the great values out there in the wine world today. I haven't had the reserve from Renacer, but I love their regular bottling. For $25 on a wine list, I'd jump all over that!
Bill,
Completely agree. I need to get up on the vintages down there – I think 2009 is supposedly excellent. This one could be one to grab by the case. My only complaint, and it's slight, is that I don't find Malbec as food friendly as other varietals in terms of pairing with a wider range of foods. Do you agree with that or am I off base?
J
One of the most interesting photos on your blog! I wish I had the nerve to photograph in public.
Fo-
I think you'd be hard-pressed to find a better pairing than Malbec and grilled beef; particularly with a little chimichurri sauce on top.
Malbec is also good with Tex-Mex food, chili, mole sauces and any other spicy fare.
John, I got your comment on the Castel Giocondo 2006 Brunello DI Montalcino, thank you, but as is often the case I can't comment on that blog post at this time.
I did send an e-mail to respond to the Paper, but I may or may not get an answer.
Yes, I'm trying very hard to let the '06 wine sit, and I'll probably get to the 2007 Castel Giocondo tomorrow.
Best regards,
Dennis
Dennis,
I'll be curious to hear if you get a reply. Keep me posted…
J