Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec 2006, Mendoza, Argentina

Yesterday was one of my good friend's 30th birthdays.  Big 3-0.  Twenty of us made our way to Reata Restaurant in Fort Worth, TX for a birthday dinner.  The food was lovely, and called for a lovely wine to match.  This Malbec did just the trick.


I only had a glass, but I could've finished the whole bottle.  The nose on it was beautiful initially.  The aroma erupted with bold, beautiful fruit and spices.  Malbec is a dark, powerful red but this Bodega Norton was soft and silky at the same time.  The finish was long and satisfying.  The rich taste of the Malbec stayed with me for about twenty seconds after I swallowed it.  Love when that happens.  It's a pretty complex wine, but it's accessible enough for most anybody.  My friend next to me at the table copied my wine order and she thoroughly enjoyed her three glasses too.  Thoooouuuuroughly.

Technical Info:

Varietal: 100% Malbec 

Alcohol: 14% 

Origin: Mendoza, Argentina

Price: $13 at Costco and wine shops.

Rachel's Grade: A-   I don't think you're going to find more wine for less than this Norton costs.  I don't usually pay any mind to Wine Spectator, but their 90 pt rating is well-deserved in this case.  Velvety and rich just like a wine made from this grape should be.  I think this '06 vintage is peaking right now, so go out and find some before it's gone!