A Tale of Two Malbecs

In January, the Argentine peso plunged 20% in value and citizens lined up to trade pesos for the American dollar. One result is, there has never been a better time for American consumers to buy Malbec.

Last week, I reviewed the 2011 Mendoza Vineyards Fairhills 1907 Malbec, which I really liked and rated at a score of 90 points. This was an exceptional value for a wine costing $7.99 at Costco.

Today, we review the 2012 Piedra Negra Malbec Alta Coleccion from Mendoza. This 100% Malbec wine is grown in semi desert conditions in the foothills of the Andes. It was mechanically harvested and aged 5 to 6 months. It has an A.C. of 13.5%. It has some taste of ripe fruit and hints of pepper.

My opinion is that the wine lacks complexity and flavor and I was disappointed. Costco says this wine is regularly $12.99 but currently it is reduced to $9.99. I have researched the wine online and it is usually sold for less than $12.99, often at $9.99. This is not the usual Costco good deal!

Skip the Piedra Negra Malbec and buy the Fairhills 1907 Malbec instead, or pay a little more and buy the Norton Reserva Malbec!

SC Wine Joe Rating for Piedra Malbec=86

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