Deep ruby colored with staining on the walls and medium viscosity (13.5% ABV).  The nose has medium (-) intensity aromas of macerated blackberry, a touch of black plum, raspberry and whiff of asparagus.  The palate is dry with medium (+) acidity and medium tannins that lead to a medium body.  The fresh black fruit is more evident on the palate and there is a hint of rooibos tea, some mocha and raspberry- the green note is nowhere to be tasted.  The finish is short in length but refreshingly tart.  This is not a complex wine by any stretch, but for $8 from ALDI…. I’ll drink it on a weekday with grilled burgers, pizza or pasta.  It’s funny to drink a wine that is a 2023 vintage when most of the northern hemisphere has not even begun to pick their 2023 grapes.  This 86 point wine gets 3 stars from me and should be drunk by 2027.  Salut….

If you read much about winemaking the name Michel Rolland will no doubt come up, several times.  He’s a consultant oenologist who works with hundred of clients worldwide.  At a steak house in Quebec they offered this blend of 55% Malbec, 19% Merlot, 10% Cabernet-Sauvignon, 12% Syrah, 2% Petit Verdot , 2% Cabernet Franc.  It normally retails for $16 and garnered high marks from the pros so I had to try it.

Inky with rich aromas of blackberry, black currants, mint, charred wood and licorice.  Full bodied with rich flavors and medium tannins.  Gentle acidity makes for great mouthfeel. 92 points.  Till 2028

Those were my tableside notes- very brief but you get the idea (I did not want to detract from the conversation to write details!). Drink this 5 star gem with steaks all day long- the pairing is magical.  Salut….