Pascual Toso, Magdalena Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec, Mendoza

In honour of World Malbec Day. First pour clear and very dark, no browning. Looked like a cabsav. Nose pure dark fruit and the scrapings from the roasting pan after the joint has been lifted. Very nice. Mouthfeel, quite dense, loaded with flavour which I struggled to differentiate. Tannins burly but not throwing their weight around, balanced by sufficient fruit to keep it levelish. Great power and very youthful. Absolutely floored the beef stew I was supping on. I'd like …

Clear, deep purple-black. Nose showed disciplined, intense dark fruits, cassis, granite, toast. Blackberry and dark cassis on the palate, with black pepper, vanilla, and olive notes adding complexity, and with a tart yet plush and chewy mouthfeel. Nicely integrated tannins power a long finish. Maybe a bit oaky still but I'm sensitive to this lately. All in all, an outstanding Malbec.