2013 Clayhouse Malbec $18

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Winery Tasting Notes: “Bright magenta-purple color. Aromas of fresh anise, violets, orange zest, cinnamon-stick and plum. The wine has a plush mouthfeel with spiced plum and fresh blueberry fruit flavors. The finish is toasty with sweet tobacco, moderate tannins and an acidic back bone that will bring you back for more. The wine pairs well with lean meats and traditional rustic fare.”
 
Blend: 91% Malbec, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petite Sirah
Alcohol Level: 14.8%
Cases Produced: 101
Winemaker Name: Blake Kuhn
Maturity: Drink Now – 2026
Pairings:  Basically…BBQ MEATS!  Hard Cheeses, starches, anything on the richer-side of the flavor wheel

Staff Review:  DREW MOFFAT – When you think Malbec, I feel most people find it to be synonymous with South America or more directly Chile or Argentina…AND you would be right.  Malbec is one of six Bordeaux varieties: a thin-skinned grape and needs more sun and heat than either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to mature.  Traditionally, Malbec is used for blending and can bring very deep color, ample tannin, and a particular plum-like flavor component to add complexity to claret blends.  Again, traditionally (in Bordeaux) this has been the case but now with the introduction to new-world growing regions such as Argentina/Chile, you are seeing this wine produced as a stand-alone variety.

The success in Argentina has spread across the globe with other wine growing regions planting more Malbec.  The United States grew in acres planted from 1000-7000 from 1995 to 2003.  Which is why I was absolutely stoked when I came across the 2013 Clayhouse Estate Malbec.  This wine is just absolutely beautiful, with blueberry flavors, zesty spice and finish that lingers on-and-on.  Knowing that there were only 101 cases (4 barrels) of this wine produced also suggests a lot of TLC went into the final product.  This is one you have to try because it’s a rarity and definitely a special item for our wonderful club member!

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