Chateau Haut-Monplaisir, Pur Plaisir, Cahors

Definetly open, integrated and ready to enjoy. Reminiscent of a fine, ripe, bold Bordeaux. Dense, black fruit, cassis, black cherry, leather, spice and river stone. Beautiful, opaque, deep purple. Dense, full-bodied mid-palate, with softened, though still dry, dusty tannins and mouthwatering acid. Paired very well with NY steak. Definitely plenty of fruit and structure left for another 3-5 years, if not longer. Doesn’t taste tired, dried or thin. Softened, though still powerful. I’m happy I opened my single bottle when …

Quite dry and firm, but has an energy and juiciness that is interesting. There is bright acidity but also weight. It doesn't show it's age - will likely benefit from even more cellaring.

Quite simply put, one of the best Malbecs out there. So juicy and plump. I think this would still be good in 3-5.

Malbecs ($20 to $40) (Dan's) : Congrats to Lou for being the only one to pick out the non-Argentinian wine in the bunch. He said it was because the tannins were dry and not sweet. I need to study on that. Purple in color. The nose was tight and took some time, eventually showing black cherries and dark raspberries. The had a nice acidity and the firmest tannins in the group. More blueberries on the palate. Slight heat on the …

Didn't enjoy this bottle quite as much as the previous. Not sure if it was bottle variation, the change in the weather or what, but it was rather tight and acidic tasting. Not nearly as plush and delicious as I remember. Still a nice wine, but below the mark for me on QPR.

Interesting wine. Am not used to French malbecs. I found it a bit one dimensional, but then I generally get that impression with other malbecs I've had.

OMG yum. This is one of the best balanced malbecs I've ever had. Full in the bouquet and palate, with rich red and black fruit complemented by good acidity and a nice minerally streak. Lots of umami flavors and a note of cocoa make it pretty interesting, too. Must get more!