Washington Malbec week carries on, and today's selection stems from Red Mountain area of the Columbia Valley, from Sparkman Cellars, of which I know very little (I currently reside in Southwestern Oregon).
Let's do the inside baseball stuff first: 85% Malbec, 15% Syrah grown in the Red Mountain region from three different vineyards (Klipsun, Sagemoor and Ciel du Cheval), no age statement but is aged in 14% new French oak.
A big and savory wine that's chewy, with a nose focused on the usual dried fruits and earth tones expected from a traditional Argentinian monster, and has very little of a floral element. The palate welcomes a muted orange and plum influence that tempers things a bit and enhances the wine's vibrant character. Some patience in the glass helps to bring balance to these elements and improves an already engaging experience
No matter what word you use to describe the contents this is a delightful bottle in every sense, and should be opened for any special occasion on your calendar worth celebrating (a new job, tax refund, you grew a third arm, etc.). I'm actually contemplating a trip north for a visit, as their tasting menu also looks absolutely cracking.