Today I am tasting the 2007 Reserva Malbec by Viu Manent from the Valle de Colchagua region of Chile. This bottle from 100% Malbec was acquired for under $15. Malbec is an interesting grape varietal having arrived in Chile before landing in Argentina where it is so prominent. This wine is produced from old vines on the San Carlos estate and is aged in oak for 10 months. I do have one complaint about the Viu Manent wines. They need to revisit their closure system. I have consistent found their corks do be trouble. So, be careful when opening them.
Color
In the glass it is a dark purple.
Aroma
The aromas begin to jump out of the glass as soon as it is poured. It is not aromatically shy. There are blackberry and cedar components. In addition there is a hint of earthiness. It reminds me of humid, rotten leaves on the forest floor in the summer.
Flavor
The attack is showing cherry notes and plum. The mid-palate begins with some more cherry and a cola component. It finishes with a little heat and dry tannins. The oak is a little strong on the mid-palate. Overall it is pretty dry with only a bit of sweetness on the attack. This is definite more controlled than some of the Argentinian Malbecs which are more extracted and fruity. However it isn’t as easy drinking as most people might expect from a Malbec. It will pair well with milk chocolate. Also with spaghetti.
Rating
For me this wine is a bit bland for the price. It is also got too much oak showing. I rate it 83 points.
