The 2017 Malbec Reserva is a palate cleanser, a little respite from the California Cabs and Syrahs that have dominated Notes in these recent “post-Italy” weeks. This Argentinian wine was produced in the Uco Valley of the Mendoza region by the Los Haroldos family, who profess to have over 80 years of experience in the field.

2017 Malbec Reserva, Los Haroldos, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina.

It’s fine overall, an accessible cellar defender that’s just right for a weeknight glass or two. Like most Malbec wine, this Reserva is deep red in color—nearly violet—and well saturated with notes of dark cherry and black raspberry. This Los Haroldos offering is bold yet still has a balanced finish.

Ours accompanied seared flank steak (yes I remember the marinade and okay fine I’ll omit those details here…) and summery salad consisting of yellow pepper, red onion, Romain and mixed lettuce greens, corn, and red potato. Really fun-looking presentation and excellent backdrop for the Malbec, which always pairs well with foodstuffs that include a kiss of spice. Ridley was certainly a fan and sat close by, where he could presumably offer support for any bites that needed his oversight.

According to the smart guys, this 2017 Malbec Reserva has “Complex aromas of berry, cherry, plum, and raspberry flavor as they combine with wood notes, especially chocolate and vanilla.”

The 2017 provided a good value and you’d be okay with it too if you pulled the cork on one. Hoping you’re all staying safe and be well!