10 Argentinean Wines Under $20
By Maureen C. Petrosky
Argentina has long been hailed a country that delivers quality wines at bargain prices. This especially rings true for the reds, like the sassy Malbecs and intense Cabernet Sauvignons from the Mendoza region. The whites in this price range, however, seem to be a bit more inconsistent. There are some interesting sips, though, like the cunning white wine made from the Torrentes grape and a couple of Chardonnays that prove pleasant when poured.
Go forth and find your favorites. In the meantime, here are a few of mine to get you started.
1.Tamari Reserva Torrentes, 2006, $13
This famous little white grape from Argentina is ultra alluring and feminine with acute aromatics. One sniff and you're rolling in rose petals and tropical fruits, similar to Muscat wines. Its taste profile delivers a nice touch of acidity topped by a vanilla-infused finish.
2. Alamos, Chardonnay, 2006, $10
Alamos Chardonnay hails from Bodega Catena's high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, and both the 2006 and 2007 vintages poured lovely, lively sips. This Chardonnay is full of tropical fruit and floral aromas topped with a dollop of vanilla cream. The balanced acidity and vibrant citrus notes make for a clean, crisp taste.
3. Trapiche Torrontes, 2007, $8
Trapiche's version of Torrentes has a touch of green in the glass with gold hints, and when swirled it exhales a breath filled with floral and citrus aromas. This white works well at a garden party, and is a suitable match for an evening of oysters and creamy seared scallops.
4. Doña Paula, Los Cardos, Chardonnay, 2006, $9
Think of a cross between Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. You'll notice greenish-yellow hues and aromas of tropical fruits, but the flavors are completely different than the Chardonnay-like aroma. You'll be surprised by strong minerality and bold citrus flavors of lemon and lime. It's not your typical Chard, but may find a friend in someone looking to sip something different.
5. Gascón Malbec, 2006, $12
This Malbec is a lot to savor for such a small price tag. Taste how the first sip changes as it aerates. (Yes, there's a reason for all that fancy swirling.) This red is easy to drink on a chilly evening. Its inviting black cherry and creamy vanilla taste slithers across your tongue with ease and finishes with a sassy touch of spice.
6. Catena Malbec, 2006, $19
The name Catena is one to seek when shopping for Argentinean wine. It consistently delivers satisfaction. This sip is big, rich and intensely blood red. It has concentrated red-berry flavors and shows off smoked meats and leather aromas, perfect for sipping with a cigar. This wine can stand alone or take on anything charred on the grill.
7. La Posta Angel Paulucci Vineyard, Malbec, 2006, $19
La Posta Angel is a fabulous gift bottle. It looks beautiful and, more importantly, tastes great. While some big Malbecs can tire your palate after one glass, this wine keeps giving. It's well-balanced with the perfect amount of acid and tannins, and layered with delightful dark berry, creamy oak and sweet spice flavors. Savor alongside pasta Bolognese or a simple bowl of olives.
8. Crios de Susana Balbo, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006, $15
This screw cap is a perfect example that you can't judge a wine by its packaging, but with that being said, this Cab is at the top. Sexy in its deep, dark dazzling red dress, it possesses a smell of bittersweet chocolate with no bitterness on the palate. This wine lingers and loves a cheese plate.
9. Bodega Norton, Malbec, 2006, $9
As you can see, we've listed several choices from 2006, so it's safe to say this was a yummy vintage for the reds of Argentina. This also holds true for this red under $10. It's a big mouthful of wine for the price, with all the intensity and flavors you crave from a Malbec. But it lacks a bit of finesse. At this price, grab more than one bottle of this ideal after-work drink.
10. Valentin Bianchi, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2005, $17
For the full effect of Argentina's power, here's where you'll want the seared steak and empanadas. This wine oozes sex appeal thanks to its chocolate-cherry and sweet cedar-spiked perfume. You'll be captivated by the crimson-twirled-with-purple color and rich, intense taste.
Note: Prices listed are based on the standard 750 ml bottle, unless otherwise noted and may vary depending on location and proprietor.
Maureen C. Petrosky is author of The Wine Club: A Month-By-Month Guide to Learning About Wine With Friends.
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