Stan’s pick in May 2014
2013 Don Rodolfo Tannat (Mendoza, Argentina)… $10.
When is the last time you’ve tasted a Tannat? I am almost positive there are only a few of you out there that have given this grape varietal a try let alone heard of it. Now is the time to expand your palate horizons with this fantastic red for a mere ten bones.
Tannat is most common in the Madaran AOP (Appellation d’Origine Protegee) of Southwest France near the Pyrenees mountains. The wines of this region are so chewy in their youth that they are nearly undrinkable until they have aged for a few years. The Tannat grape tends to produce dark and dense wines with solid tannins, and is often blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It is also used as a blending grape in the Cahors AOP just northeast of Madaran.
However, I have tasted a few from Uruguay and this one from Mendoza, Argentina and they are very drinkable and delicious at a young age as is evident in this ’13 Don Rodolfo version.
Aromas of currants, red flowers, violets, rose petals and a hit of vanilla and just a hint of raw meat (don’t be scared, this is a good thing in a red wine). On the palate, a little tomato stem action hides under a layer of currants and spice. Worn leather notes show up on the mid-palate, joined by notes of stewed meat and blackberries leading into blue fruit notes and anise that lingers for some time on the finish.
Are you kidding me? This is a pretty complex and interesting wine for a prayer, and will match up nicely with grilled meats. It is also smooth and delicious enough to fall into the cocktail red category for those of you who just want to sit down after a long day and enjoy a glass of red. (B)
Cheers!
Stan The Wine Man
