Vintages Release: July 21, 2018

92 
Pyros Malbec ‘Barrel Selected 160’ Malbec 2014
Pedernal Valley, Argentina $25.95 (555813) 14.5% alcohol 
This malbec has a Venetian flair reminiscent of Amarone with its dry prune, raisin, burnt sugar, licorice and dark fruit aromas. One year of maturation in barrel, half American, half French, plus one year of bottle maturity turn this into a potpourri of complex flavours —dry cherry, prune, dry figs, baking spice and tangy, earthy, aged balsamic vinegar notes are a feast for the palate from start to finish. This is full bodied with balance and fine grippy tannins suggesting potential for cellaring. It’s an excellent after-dinner sipper or a delicious partner to lamb tajine with prunes. Aerate/decant two hours, pour now to 2024. (Louise Boutin)

Vintages Release: August 18, 2018

• The following 2016 Viña Cobos ‘Felino’ Malbec was sourced from hand-picked, late-ripening fruit at approx. 700 m to 1200 m a.s.l. in the semi-desert, premium growing areas of Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco. It was fermented with native and commercial yeasts in closed top stainless tanks and bottled unfined.

92 
Viña Cobos ‘Felino’ Malbec 2016
Mendoza, Argentina $19.95 (118067) 14.0% alcohol
This is quite elegant and excellent value. Aromas of fresh red berry fruit, dark plum, pencil shavings and vanilla abound. It bathes the palate with a lively fresh, high-toned flow of pie cherry and red currant interlaced with bramble berry, blueberry and kirsch liqueur adorned with white pepper notes, mocha and oodles of tang. This is mid-full bodied with textured mouthfeel and a lingering, lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. It’s deftly balanced with good depth and plenty of charm. (Vic Harradine)

Vintages Release: September 15, 2018

91 
Achaval Ferrer Malbec 2016
Mendoza $29.95 14.5% alcohol
This wine is dark red, almost opaque, with a nose of cherry, bacon, and tobacco with hints of dry earth and violets. It’s medium-light bodied on the palate with a wonderful tartness and significant, well-integrated tannins. There are flavours of vanilla, strawberry, mint and thyme that coalesce into a long finish dominated by dried herbs and vanilla. It’s perfectly matched with Beef Daube Provençal. (Dave Isaacs)