The 2008 Reserve Malbec spent 8 months in French oak. It has a similar saturated purple color. The nose offers up spice box, earth notes, violets, and black cherry. Medium-bodied, on the palate it reveals some elegance, plenty of ripe, spicy black fruits, some structure, and impeccable balance. Drink this nicely priced Malbec over the next 6 years. Finca Sophenia produces all of its wines from estate fruit with the exception of the Torrontes. The winery has a good presence in the USA market with 20-25% of the production coming here.Importer: The Country Vintner, Ashland, VA; tel. (804) 752-3680

Earthy, leathery aromas are front and center on the broad, beefy nose that also blends in dark fruits including blueberry. The palate is medium-bodied, with black cherry, blackberry and herbal flavors. Shows good feel and a solid, middle-of-the-road overall character.——M.S.(2/1/2010)—— 86