87
points
Balbi 1997 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Mendoza)
-
$13
Has very pretty aromas of currant, black cherry and oak. The palate impression is of gorgeous fruit: ripe, sweet, spicy and pure. Impeccable balance of acidity, soft tannins, alcohol, and subtle oak shadings. Designed for immediate pleasure and delivers plenty of it. Best Buy.
— W.E.
(8/1/2000)
85
points
Balbi 1999 Syrah (Mendoza)
-
$8
A solid example of the varietal, with deeply earthy, peppery aromas, and it is certainly as clean as any wine on earth. Yet the flavors have been stretched. This leaves the strong tannins alone on the palate. Still, with almost anything you could fit on a backyard barbecue, this would be fine.
— S.H.
(11/1/2002)
83
points
Balbi 1998 Syrah (Mendoza)
-
$10
Good dark color. The aroma is young and vibrant, with spicy plum, freshly crushed blackberries, white pepper, and a deep, mushroomy-earthy note. Flavors are impressively deep and extracted, and the tannins are young, fresh and ample. Tends toward the simple side, but has a refreshing balance and elegance.
— W.E.
(8/1/2000)