theCompass
 Home   Map   Blog Roll   WineCompass   Wine 101   My Compass 

Clay Station Malbec

Clay Station Malbec Wine Details
Price: $12.99 per bottle

Description: The ripe, lush black grape variety, Malbec, was originally made famous in Bordeaux as a blending component of Cabernet along with Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. In the U.S., it is better known on its own. In Argentina, the wine is universally enjoyed because it pairs so well with grilled beef. The grapes for this wine were harvested at their optimum ripeness and fermented in small batches at warmer temperatures to extract maximum color and flavor. The fruit was handled very gently throughout the winemaking process to avoid bitterness and help deliver that uniquely round, smooth and soft Malbec that is characteristic of Clay Station. This Malbec is a full-bodied, deep reddish purple wine with aromas of earth and blueberry. The blackberry, blueberry, cola and chocolate flavors burst onto the palate and are framed by soft tannins and a hint of vanilla. The wine has both complexity and elegance with a long, lingering and velvety finish.

Varietal Definition
Malbec:
Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, this grape is among the "big six" for red wine grapes. Malbec is typically a medium to full-bodied red wine. Ripe fruit flavors of plums and blackberry give it a jammy characteristic. The tannins are typically a bit tight and the earthy, wood-like appeal makes for a fairly rustic wine. Malbec goes well with roast meats such as chicken or turkey. It should be served at 58F and can be aged for up to 5 years typically.
Cabernet Franc:
Cabernet Franc is an accessible, spicy, herbal, dark blue grape variety that is often compared to Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc tends to be softer and has less tannin than Cabernet Sauvignon, although the two can be difficult to distinguish. Sometimes the French refer to Cabernets, which could mean either of the two grapes. Its typical aromas include an herbaceous and pronounced peppery nose, even in ripe fruit, and something eerily like tobacco. The Cabernet Franc ripens at an earlier stage, which gives it reason to exist in the Bordeaux area. In the Loire, where we find it a lot, it gives a clear red fresh and fruity wine.
Petit Verdot:
Petite Verdot is one of the five noble Bordeaux varietals, essentially acting as the nuts and bolts in most Bordeaux blends. With intense color and racy flavors, this wine possesses elements of pencil shavings, dark fruit presentation and a subtle complexity, which can be appreciated by even the most discerning palate.


Reviews




Back to Delicato Family Vineyards information