I'm not entirely certain we've ever done a flashpoint review like this, but as we are winding down into the summer break (we're taking a few weeks off to do a bit of back-end housekeeping) I figured it would be appropriate to list off some recent tasting notes, off the cuff and immediate, as opposed to in the form by which we've all agreed upon to deliver content to you, the gentle reader. It's nice to break things up from time to time.
Anyways, some thoughts on a few Mendoza Malbecs from recent places, spaces, tastings, dinners, and shops. Some have already been covered here by other contributors, and others have not.
2018 Trapiche Medlla Malbec - Decent showing of cherry and black fruit. Straightforward with no complexity, but a good representation of Mendoza that could be a nice daily sipper or something to serve with burgers from the grill. $18
2019 Alpamanta Natal Organic Malbec - They need to serve this over ice, sno-cone style, and call it "Raspberry Rush" because that's all that's here from start to finish. For some reason I can see George Bluth being really into this. $15
2021 La Posa Pizzella Malbec - We already know and love this one, but I'm not skipping it based on our ongoing love affair. So much complexity that it's a steal at three times this price, but I'm so glad it's still within an accessible, affordable price range for everyone to enjoy. Herbs and berries are all over the place with a decent amount of acidity. Buy three, store one, and drink the other two immediately. $20
2019 Tapiz Alta Collection - A lovely blend of roasted plum and tobacco leaf on the nose with some nice oak and vanilla running throughout. Big and surly, and works incredibly well with a Montreal-rubbed steak. Would love to give this one a revisit in the winter months. $20
2021 Argento Minimalista Malbec - Decent acidity and body with rosemary, minerality, and strawberry on the nose. Minimalism remains en vogue and fashionable. Take that how you wish. $8
2019 Piatelli Trinita Grand Reserve - Almost reminiscent more of a US or French Malbec, with red fruit, vanilla, and a touch of cream on the nose. But then it gets freaky on the palate, with heavy pepper and black fruit showing up to the party. It's complex and has a heck of a lot of oak on a very long finish, but a fun bottle to spend a few hours enjoying while surfing through the Criterion Channel. $30
2021 Domaine Bousquet Virgen Natural Organic - Sweeter than most, with a load of anise and bing cherry on the palate. It's interesting to see how much this contrasts with other Domaine offerings, as this is the most puckery of the bunch. Might be a good introduction for non-Malbec drinkers. $14