Guillermo Banfi is making some take-notice wines, not the least of which is this smooth, supple Malbec. The nose hits firmly but not hard, with blueberry, licorice and cassis. The palate is medium in size and length, with fully ripe black cherry, plum and black currant flavors. All the right things are front and center.
— M.S.
(5/1/2007)
Dark and ripe on the nose, with a touch of class that distinguishes it from the many that inhabit this range of wine. Aromas of black fruits, black olives and herbs are pretty and set the stage for full black cherry and chocolate flavors. For $10 you’re getting a lot of quality juice.
— M.S.
(5/1/2007)
True blackberry and blueberry aromas are classic Malbec, while the full and concentrated palate delivers blackberry, black cherry and chocolate flavors. With mocha and cola on the finish, this one ranks as one of those lush, ready and delicious young Malbecs.
— M.S.
(11/1/2009)
Cinnamon and other sultry, exotic aromas envelop the heavy, saturated bouquet, while plum flavors veer a bit toward prune as the palate yields to a rich, almost liqueur-like finish. May be a case of more ripeness working against the wine, because Alma’s less-ripe, less-extracted Malbecs seem even better.
— M.S.
(5/1/2007)
Tight on the nose, with hints of resin, lemon peel and black fruit that smell inviting when all added up. The palate is juicy, arguably a bit acidic, and runs fresh with red cherry and plum flavors. Spunky and properly tannic.
— M.S.
(8/1/2009)
Like most of Alma’s wines, this Bonarda is smooth, fruity and approachable. The nose is simple and offers some spice, licorice and herb notes, while the berry flavors are just as they should be: easy and jammy. There’s nothing challenging about this red; just pour it with pizza or burgers and enjoy.
— M.S.
(8/1/2007)
Not entirely sure what the difference is between the Alma de los Andes and Sur de los Andes lines (because they come from the same winery), but this 50-50 blend, while needing a little time to find its stride, provides ample fruit, peppery spice and good mouthfeel. It’s not a thriller but it more than makes the grade in this price category.
— M.S.
(5/1/2007)
Generic berry aromas with a hint of tomato and bramble set this off as a different breed, which it is, considering it’s 78% Tannat. The palate has biting tannings and toughness, while the flavors of raspberry and strawberry are snappy. Finishes strange, with pronounced butter and foxiness. Has its positives and negatives.
— M.S.
(5/1/2010)