Two years since its introduction to the US market, the Domaine Bousquet Virgen ("virgin" in English) line has expanded from one to three reds. Tasting these two, it's no surprise because the wines deliver vivacious, fresh fruit with good structural balance for a smart SRP of only $13. Moreover, the attractive, brightly-colored and elegant labels make an impact that aligns with the wines' motto of making earth-friendly - even vegan-friendly, wines with only naturally occurring sulfites. Hence, the wines proudly bear a USDA Organic label as well as a "No Added Sulfites" assertion.
Read MoreDomaine Bousquet NV Pinot Noir/Chardonnay Sparkling Brut: Perched in the Andes Mountains at 1,200 meters / 3,937 feet, the vineyards for these grapes are certified organic and harvested by hand. Produced using the Charmat method, where the second alcoholic fermentation occurs in tank rather than in bottle, this is a value-driven over-performer ready for everyday enjoyment or special occasions. Bonus: the wine is vegan friendly.
Read MoreDominio del Plata 2018 Malbec Crios Valle de Uco: Boldly brambly, this bracingly fresh Malbec screams varietal character, especially those typically coming from cooler climate Malbec. Behind the pristine pure fruit lies a gentle, seamless stream of tannin that gives the palate shape. However, it's the exuberantly fresh acidity that defines the tension here. I believe that it's one of the best Crios Malbecs of the many, many, many vintages that I have tasted.
Read MoreThese two Malbecs supersede their different-ends-of-the-scale price points. Importantly, they offer an interesting contrast of Malbec possibilities. The US is high quality-oriented. Not all of Argentina’s export markets are so picky.
Read More