Round, soft and fresh, with plum and milk chocolate notes followed by an easygoing finish. Drink now. 2,500 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–JM??Region: Argentina / San Juan / Zonda Valley Select to Add

Sol Huarpe’s top wine, Xumek, has style and saucy sass. It’s not just cookie-cutter ripe and rich, but instead shows herbs, mushroom and also ample black plum and berry flavors. In general it’s nice for those seeking a touch more from their Argentinean Malbec. And it hails from lesser-known San Juan and not Mendoza, which may explain its unusual characteristics.——M.S.(12/1/2007)—— 88