This Patriota is 60% Bonarda, 40% Malbec.

*Straight out of the bottle: Even though this wine is only 40% Malbec, it transcends classic varietal characteristics. It was surprisingly very earthy with a unusual mineral undertone that was consistent throughout the palate. It is a bigger wine carrying a medium-to-fuller body. It also started slightly fruit forward with subtle hints of red fruit mixed with chocolate, transcended into a nice buttery middle and finished on the drier side. The tannins in this vintage are perfectly aged and well-balanced, which adds to the smooth finish and nice structure throughout.

While it was enjoyable to experience this wine, there are better traditional malbecs within this price point.

Raw Score: 80 Handicap Score (Compared to other wines and varietals in its price range $18): 75

Pairing: We paired this wine with a grilled new york strip steak and fresh vegetables – and it paired perfectly. With the characteristics of this wine, it would pair well with grilled beef and pork meats.

*Straight out of the bottle: First tastes tell us that this wine needs some time to open up. Young tannins seem abrasive and need to mellow out. Nice velvety texture gives us some promise that this wine has potential.

We chose to decant this wine.

*Decanted (for about an hour): For this vintage, decanting will be of great benefit to bringing out some great qualities. This malbec became a lot more approachable as the tannins became softer and smoother, adding to the nice rich, velvety texture throughout the palate. Strong flavors of berries, a slight creaminess, and oak deviate from the spiciness and earthy qualities I would have liked to see from the varietal.

This medium-to-full bodied wine, however, did become a pleasant surprise that was worth waiting for.

Raw Score: 88                                                                                                                    Handicap Score (Compared to other wines and varietals in its price range $20): 89