Casillero del Diablo Malbec
December 18, 2006I enjoy Malbec, but I’m iffy on Argentinian wines in general. There are some great finds out there (Etchart is an excellent example), but I find the range in quality to be a little much. So I was happy to find a Chilean Malbec (from one of my favourite lines too) this weekend.
The Casillero del Diablo Malbec shows a rich purple colour in the glass, with lots of overripe plums on the nose. It was medium-bodied in the mouth, with fewer tannins than I expected. But (unlike some Argentinian examples) it was lush and smooth, with more plums and a hint of dark chocolate in the mouth. The finish was average, but very tasty – and it went great with a sirloin tip roast last night. It’s available at your local MLCC for $11.95 before tax.
I really don’t mean to be so down on Argentinian wines. There are some good labels out there, and both the MLCC and some of the private stores stock a decent range. Etchart makes a tasty, chewy (and well-priced) Malbec, and I’ve really enjoyed everything I’ve tried from Trivento. The “Steak Wine” Malbec is nice and light, and the Lurton Pinot Gris is always a good choice too. I just found that I really preferred the Casillero Malbec to most Argentinian Malbec’s that I’ve tried.
wine in the 'peg 
Thanks for this. This must be Casillero del Diablo day – I am sipping the Casillero del Diablo Cabernet Sauvignon right now (for the first time, excellent value), and today’s Wine Spectator Sips and Tips reviews the Casillero del Diablo Carmenere! Unfortunately, the SAQ does not carry the Malbec. Anyway, I do not frequently have Argentinian Malbec, but I love the Norton, Catena, and Zuccardi. Have you tried French Malbec? Try the Chateau Lagrezette. Cheers!
Argentina only exports its crap. Spent 2 weeks down there in the spring and was thoroughly impressed with the reds and sparkling wines. Exchange rate makes it a steal to visit and eat/drink very very well.
is this wine sweet?
Nope. It’s very dry. If you’re looking for sweet reds, I’d suggest talking to someone at your local wine shop to see what they can offer.
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