By: Ed "The Wine Guy"
DONA PAULA ESTATE MALBECMENDOZA, ARGENTINA
Originally, the Malbec grape was used in blends in Bordeaux, France. Argentina has taken the grape and produced wines that are exclusively Malbec, bringing out its true varietal characteristics - as Chile has done with Carmenere, Australia with Syrah (Shiraz), and, it can be said, New Zealand with Sauvignon Blanc. This Malbec is typical of the Mendoza region of Argentina, possessing, arguably, the best climate and soil to produce the best Malbec. It exhibits aromas and flavors of black fruits, violets, spices, with mineral notes. The Dona Paula Estate Vineyards are managed using sustainable agricultural practices.
DONNA PAULA ESTATE RED BLEND BLACK EDITION
Red Blends are easy to drink, which is one of the reasons why they have become so popular. A Red Blend typically consists of 40-50% of one type of grape and a smaller mix of 2 or more other grapes. It has a long tradition, as exemplified by the blends of Bordeaux, France - which were referred to in the Downton Abbey production as Claret. This wine is a blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon (structure, tannin concentration), and Petit Verdot (tones of violet and leather), each grape adding specific characteristics. It exhibits aromas and flavors of dark berries, dark chocolate, and spice, with a velvety mouthfeel and a smooth finish.