Zarpado Malbec 2009

Price: $7
Winery: Mendoza Vineyards, Mendoza, Argentina
Varietal: Malbec
Packaging: 750 ml bottle, natural cork
Alcohol: 13.7%
Our Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Malbecs tend to offer some of the better red wine values, but for a mere seven bucks Zarpado Malbec 2009 is an even better value than most. It has an aroma of leather and red berries, and is surprisingly complex on the palate for such an inexpensive wine. The overall impression is of juicy blackberries and raspberries, but there’s a hint of tobacco and the finish offers tannins that are pleasantly robust.

Wine Enthusiast scored the 2008 vintage 88 points and called it “a nice, highly affordable bottling that highlights Argentina’s value potential.” Not many bloggers have commented on this wine. Tom and Melody said, “This is good! Softer than a Cab but more intense than a Merlot… I am pleasantly surprised at the quality.” Chris Voss posted this video:

Don’t confuse this Malbec with a $50 Cab, but for a nice table wine or a party wine, it’s a great choice. I paired it with grilled steak, but its softness would work well with slightly sweeter fare like barbecue as well. I’ll definitely buy a few bottles of Zarpado Malbec 2009 to have on hand for every-day drinking and casual entertaining.