Australia isn’t all that well known for grapes like Malbec, but over the last 10 years there’s been a quiet revolution which has brought lesser known grapes to the fore. While Italian grapes dominate the international grapes with the Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, Fiano, Barbera, Dolchetto, Sangiovese and Nebbiolo becoming more established.

Enter Malbec with its old world origins in Cahors, Loire and Bordeaux but with a new world rebirth in Argentina. But from Mendoza to Bleasdale winery in Langhorne Creek, Malbec has a new home. It’s not that new, however, having been grown there in this South Australian region since 1961.

The Second Innings Malbec from Bleasdale is a little bit different to many of the Malbecs I’ve had from Cahors or Argentina. It’s more Loire-like with brighter fruit, less weight and a freshness you’d normally get with Cabernet Franc.

Lots of bright plums, raspberries and a little bit of chocolate. I’m on the fence on whether to label it medium or full bodied because it’s intensely fresh while having lots and lots of complex flavours.

Ultimately, it boils down to great fruit and freshness, something I always look for in a red. Great wine and a different style of Malbec.

Availability

From Curious wines in Cork for €14.99 (currently down to €11.99)

* as regards the “wine of the week”, I reckon I could be done for false claims having not quite kept up with it, but some day.