Carancho (Argentina) Malbec 2004
The Carancho range of wines from Mendoza in Argentina are new to the UK market. I also tasted the 2005 Chardonnay (same price) which was very nice too, in a lemony, crisp, moderately-oaked style, but this juicy Malbec sneaks wine of the week for its fresh and attractive style. Some Argentine Malbecs are dark, brooding bruisers of wines, but this has a soft and chocolaty nose suggesting creamy strawberry and blackberry fruit, with a sheen of coffeeish oak. On the palate that soft, yeilding fruit quality continues, with gentle tannins and a touch of sour cherry acidity and spice. Not the most remarkable Malbec I’ve tasted from Argentina, but a good introduction and partner for grilled red meats or pizza. £4.99 Somerfield.