Don Miguel Gascon Mendoza Malbec, 2007

With its traditional label, this wine makes a favorable impression on the shelf, and I was not disappointed when I popped the cork. It's a very deep, bluish purple color, and the first sniff verifies that it's a perfect match for a grilled strip steak. Blackberries, dark cherries and coffee--big and bold with interesting flavors and textures. The wine smells and tastes thick and concentrated. On the first night, the huge fruit presence overwhelms the tannins, but both wood and fruit tannins are more apparent on the second night. Malbec cherries dominate the personality. This seems to be a wine that would age well; but if you're not intending to cellar it, drink it now while the fruit is so powerful. The price is $10.99, and there is good availability at D&W FreshMarkets.