The 2009 Malbec displays a brooding bouquet surrendering notes of brier, spice box, floral aromas, and black cherry. Smooth, succulent, and friendly, this tasty effort finishes with no hard edges. It is meant for drinking over the next 4-5 years. All three Rutini wines are excellent values.Importer: Pasternak Wine Imports, Harrison, NY; www.pasternakwine.com

Solid, familiar berry and plum aromas carry some sweetness and vanilla. The palate, however, is fairly acidic and tight, with a piercing center and snappy, almost tart flavors of raspberry and red plum. Crisp and sheering on the finish.——M.S.(8/1/2011)—— 86

Nose of sandalwood, lavender, incense, black cherry; succulent and plush on the palate.

The 2006 Rutini Malbec also spent 12 months in 50% new French oak. It reveals a slightly brooding bouquet of cigar box, incense, black cherry and plum. Slightly muted on the palate and not as expressive as the Cabernet, it is a soft, mellow effort for drinking over the next 3-4 years.Importer: Pasternak Wines, Harrison, NY; tel. (800) 946-3110