Argentine Malbec is the new black

A habit of very savvy wine drinkers is to pour underestimated and undervalued bottles. And at the present time, black wine falls squarely in this category.

Black wine refers to Malbec, the red ink that was planted for the first time in Cahors in southwestern France and is now widely produced in Argentina.

And the most exciting Argentine Malbec comes from high altitude vineyards. Taste one of these mountain malbec to see what I mean.

Trapiche Medalla 2014, Mendoza, Argentina (Vintages 547869 $ 17.00 in store and online)

Although I have not been impressed by the general list of Trapiche wines in recent times, this recent publication of vintage wines from high altitude Malbec is a knockout purchase. It is a lush and sophisticated wine that drinks like a bottle and is worth double the price. Seductive aromas of black fruit and black licorice provide instant appeal. But the real charm lies in the dense core that takes place nuance after nuance. Violets, chocolate, liquorice, bonfire, nuts, pebbles, steel and crumble with dark berries tumble down and linger on the finish. Incredible juice to break. It will not last.

Score: 95+

Pascual Toso 2016 Limited Edition Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina (LCBO 162610 $ 17.20 in-store and online)

Still in the highest-altitude vineyards, Pascual Toso Limited Edition's Malbec begins with penetrating aromas of candied black cherries and smoked blueberries before a nuance of sweet, saturated flavor comes to the mind of plum jam. and blueberry pie. The effect is textured and opulent in cashmere – the large soft tannins envelop the heart of the fruit like a blanket. Although this wine is lush, forward and full-bodied, it has an inherent balance, polish and sophistication that ensures it can be proudly poured to more experienced drinkers. A warm and sensual beauty of a red.

Score: 93

Terroir Los Miradores of Luigi Bosca 2014 Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina (vintages 568899 to $ 32.95 in store and online)

Published Oct. 27, this black-and-white wine offers exceptional value, even at over $ 30 per bottle. Sparkling aromas of macerated blackberries and dried figs give way to discreet suggestions of violet, chocolate, black olive, chalk, stone and a hint of cedar at the base of the robust fruit. The crushed velvet feel and languid length add to the flawless appeal. It's a complex and exciting vintage, with elegant elegance and finesse that tempers hedonistic intensity and power. Dangerously good wine.

Score: 94+

Catena Malbec 2016, High Mountain Vines, Mendoza, Argentina (Vintages Essential 478727 $ 17.95 until Nov. 11, Reg $ 19.95 in-store and online)

Taste the value of the altitude with this expressive bottle made of fruit grown at over 1000 m altitude. Powdery aromas of dried cherry, graphite and cocoa powder give rise to a whirlwind of satisfying, tasty and serious flavors: blueberries, blackberries and crushed plums, embellished with dried herbs, tobacco and a hint of mint. This wine has a luscious taste, long and raised with a sweet hold in mature tannin framing the ripe fruit. Serious wine for money.

Rating: 91

Bodegas Esmeralda Tilia Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina 2017 (LCBO 160945 $ 13.95 in-store and online)

Although this is not stated on the label, this wine under $ 14 comes from high altitude vineyards – and it shows. The pronounced aromas of coffee and undergrowth, grilled meat and berries lead to a silky and rich entry of succulent fruit, which is the Malbec textbook. Bright and spacious, the center has a plush and complex taste with layers of coffee velvet and mixed berries, a cigar box and a grilled pastry ending in a long chalky and dry finish. Stylish drop at a low price.

Score: 91+