Thursday, March 7, 2013

Sips & Tips for Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab

 It is impossible to ignore the overwhelming popularity of Malbec.  Largely imported from South America, Malbec provides consumers with new opportunities to take part in the renaissance of this historic varietal. Once used primarily as a blending grape in Bordeaux, Malbec has found a new identity in Argentina, where it is widely planted and is often bottled as a single varietal. Alluring notes of violets and plum make Malbec well suited for nearly every season or occasion.

Situated at the base of the Andes mountains; Mendoza, Argentina, is an ideal setting for production of Malbec. Protected by the rain shadow of the Andes to the west, this dry arid climate has wine lovers swooning for the juicy blueberry and chocolate notes of 2009 La Senal, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina ($10 glass) A beautiful accompaniment to Joe’s Chilean Sea Bass.
The vineyards of 2010 Colomé, Malbec, Salta, Argentina ($70 per bottle) are bio-dynamically farmed at an altitude of 5,500 to 8,500 feet, and are believed to be the highest altitude vineyards in the world.  High altitudes allow for a prolonged growth period for the grapes, resulting in richer, more flavorful wines.  Acclaimed for producing wines with finesse and elegance, Colomé has raised the industry standard in Argentina. This lovely wine is well suited for Joe’s Herb Roasted Chicken.


Malbec is the key component of the 2009 Cuvelier Los Andes, Colección, Uco Valley, Argentina ($78 per bottle). With a supporting cast of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petit Verdot, this is a modern take on a classic style.  The blend provides for a versatile wine, great with both seafood and red meat.  Opulent purple color, with intense floral aromas, Colección is destined for our Dry Aged Bone-in Ribeye with Lyonnaise Potatoes.

Kevin Bratt
Concept Wine Director

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