Ruta 22 - Malbec from Argentina

When I went into the wine shop to ask for a good pizza wine, I also asked for a nice fruity wine that would go well with a picnic. It had to be bold enough to compliment fried chicken, as some friends of ours had invited us out to a state park for KFC then some hiking.

I was given the shop's very last bottle of a Malbec by Ruta 22. Keeping with my tradition of trying wines from all over the world, I was excited that this one was from Argentina. So far my experiences with red wine went from a party in my mouth Syrah to a smooth and supple Sangiovese. This one, like the story goes, was just right. Bold and flavorful, yet smooth and drinkable.

When you pour it you will see that it is very dark. That already excites me! You can also smell that it is very fruit forward. Definitely the fruitiest smelling red I've had so far. Upon drinking, if you don't smile then there is something wrong with you. There is a hint of something that makes you think of blackberries. That theme continues even after swallowing.

It has a high ABV, about 14% (just like the Syrah) so if you are used to drinking wines that are around 9-10% it might be a little overwhelming. But you get over it quickly, because it is just plain delicious. Fried chicken and mashed potatoes didn't pair so badly. I know people might be thinking that white wine would go better but the sweet undertones made me very happy when matching it with the spicy flavors of the breading and gravy. Perhaps next time I will try a Chardonnay.

In the mean time, if you are looking for a red with flavor but won't rape your taste buds, this Malbec is the way to go!