Synopsis, Our Opinion: A unique, easy drinking and versatile Malbec that was an excellent value.
Producer/Winery: Julien Ilbert; Château Combel la Serre; Cournou, France.
Grape Variety: Malbec.
Geographic Appellation,, Region, Country: Cahors; Southwest France.
Vintage: 2018
Price: $16.20 (with a 10% mixed case discount)
Purchased From: The Caviste Wine Shop; Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Paired With: Venison stir-fry with onions, peppers, carrots and broccoli over basmati rice.
Tasting:
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Note: We have had this Malbec before; (see our review Combel La Serre Cahors Pur Fruit du Causse 2016) however, we’re reviewing this 2018 vintage because it was noticeably different and better than the 2016 vintage with the same pairing.
Opened one hour before drinking. Just barely clear, garnet color with a light purple rim. Very aromatic with barnyard, plum and cherry aromas with hints of a medicinal smell. Smooth entry, intense, tart and spicy mouthfeel, medium body and a 100-grit texture. Plum, blackberry, cherry and sweet cinnamon flavors. Gobs of bright acidity that’s well integrated, soft tannins and a very long dusty fruit forward and peppery spice finish with an aftertaste that combined fruit, dusty mineral and slightly grippy tannins. WOW, very fresh, vivacious and juicy, not like a traditional Malbec or the 2016 vintage. This was VERY approachable, more spirited and beguiling. Fantastic paired with the venison and We called it a unique, easy drinking and versatile Malbec that was an excellent value.
Photo from Louis/Dressner Selections.
See our reviews of other Combel la Serre wines.
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Closure: Aluminium covered 45mm Reconstructed cork.
UPC Code: 6 10373 58202 9
Imported by: Louis/Dressner Selections; New York, New York.
