While the roots of Bodega Norton go back to 1895, it’s seen a lot of changes over the past 20-some years. It was acquired by Austrian businessman Gernot Langes-Swarovski in 1989 and has seen a lot of investment since then to improve the quality and quantity of wine they produce. In 2006 they were named one of the top wineries in the world by Wine Spectator magazine, a testament to the work they had done over recent years.
Norton produces a number of different lines of wine and this malbec is from their Reserva line, which is a step up from their entry-level wines but certainly not the most expensive wine they produce.
A question some readers might have, with this review going up right before Thanksgiving, is “can I serve a malbec with Thanksgiving dinner?” And the answer is sure! Why not?!
The aromas in this wine are on the darker side, with plum, black cherry, mocha and some clove to make it interesting. The only complaint on the nose is that it’s a bit fumy from the alcohol, although it’s not so strong to be a total turn off. The palate brings plum and cherry flavors with lively acidity. It also has a touch of black pepper spice. The tannins are moderate and the finish is fairly long. While there’s not a lot to make this malbec stand out as unique, it is sturdy and pleasing.
Wine: Bodega Norton Reserva
Variety: Malbec
Vintage: 2008
Alcohol: 14.5%
Rating: 86
Price: $15.00
Find Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec with Snooth
Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.