Our series on Malbec continues today with a look at a very good Malbec from a French winemaker who relocated to Argentina. Jean Bousquet began his winemaking career in Carcassonne, France, where he spent over 20 years honing his craft. In 1990 he first became familiar with the vineyards of Mendoza, Argentina and in 1997 he purchased land in Tupungato, Mendoza and relocated his winery to Argentina.
I tasted this wine alongside some $40+ Malbecs—which were exceptional—and it held it’s own next to them.
What I like about this wine is that it has character. It’s not just fruity or big, but has complexity and interesting qualities that make you want to explore the wine, not just drink it. The aromas in this Malbec remind me of coffee, caramel, an old cedar chest and blackberries. A floral aroma also weaves through the nose. The palate has rich fruit flavors including plum, red raspberry and black cherry. There is also a touch of black pepper, which is always something I appreciate. It is a little bit sweet on the palate, but it’s not a total fruit bomb. The finish is medium in length with powerful cherry flavors.
Wine: Jean Bousquet Malbec Reserva
Variety: Malbec
Vintage: 2007
Alcohol: 14.5%
Rating: 88
Price: $18.00
Find Jean Bousquet Malbec Reserva with Snooth
Disclosure: This wine was provided as a sample for review.