2017 Kriselle Cellars Malbec
Rogue Valley,
Southern Oregon,
Oregon
13.8% alcohol
Cork closure
Color:
Royal purple
Bouquet:
I found this Malbec to be an interesting play between earth and fruit. First, I was struck by its savory eucalyptus and faint asphalt aromas, which then evolved into ripe black cherry, plum, and raspberry notes. A second sniff revealed smells of mocha latte and vanilla.
Palate:
Unless you first decanted this Malbec, expect those same savory notes in your initial sips. Bay leaves, dried rosemary, and eucalyptus slowly transformed into plums, black cherries, and rose petals. The wine had good acidity levels, grippy tannins with a medium-bodied mouthfeel, and notes of vanilla and mocha latte. As it was exposed to more air, the fruit flavors became more and more prominent and ushered in slight hints of black licorice and cinnamon. All those lovely savory and fruit notes ended in a tart rosehip finish.
Food pairing suggestions:
Owner/winemaker Scott Steingraber makes wines that are very food-friendly, and this Malbec is no exception. Pair with black bean burgers, chicken tamales, or a small crumble of blue cheese on a lean steak (as suggested by Kriselle)!
SRP $30
Be sure to check out our tasting notes on other Kriselle wines:
2018 Kriselle Cellars Viognier
2015 Kriselle Cellars Cabernet sauvignon
2019 Kriselle Cellars Albariño
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About the Author: Michele Francisco
