Varietal: Â 50% Malbec; 50% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Â Colchagua Valley, Chile
Cost: Â $15 (SRP)
Winemaker’s Notes: Â On their own, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvingon shine, but when paired up, these two classic varieties complement each other perfectly. It’s a sensational double-bill: Â smooth, velvety texture from the Malbec with wonderful richness, structure, and fruit from the Cabernet. Part Malbec, part Cabernet, adding up to a wine that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
My Review: Â It’s no secret that I have a fondness for wines from south of the equator. It’s not that I don’t like wines from my home of Virginia, or from the rest of the US and Europe for that matter, simply that I’ve had a good record of finding good quality wines at great values when I head south (in the store…never been there in person unfortunately). So, when a pair of wines from Chile showed up a few weeks back I was, admittedly, happy to try them. You can check out my review of the Montes Syrah Rose’ to see how the first one went.
For the 2012 Montes Twins I knew something heartier was going to be needed for pairing, which is why when my wife and I decided to make beef stew for dinner one day (it’s been a bit cold here in Virginia lately), I knew exactly what I wanted to open and pair with it.
In the glass the wine was an inky mix of red and purple, while on the nose I picked up notes of mocha and coffee. In the mouth the wine was silky smooth with some of the mocha and coffee from the nose showing up along with their new friend dark fruit, though it didn’t overwhelm the palate.
The wine was a great pairing with the beef stew, having enough fruit to balance out the richness of the food, while having plenty of body so as not to be too much of a contrast.
For $15 this is a great value wine, and one that I would definitely revisit again. Both the Montes Twin and the Cherub amused me with their labels and impressed me with their wines, which is how it should be. Definitely one worth grabbing for that heartier meal you’re thinking of cooking.
Editor’s Note: I received this wine as a free sample for review.
