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SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE WINES
For our latest round of wine reviews , we asked panelists to taste and rate wines from the Southern Hemisphere . This broad area includes some of the hottest and fastest-growing wine regions on the planet . As always , these selections include brief tasting notes , a rating and the wine ’ s retail price ( which can vary from store to store and market to market ). Unless noted otherwise , the price reflects a 750- ml . bottle .
FIVE STARS
( 97 ) 4 Los Gatos Malbec ( Argentina ). Sourced from vineyards nearly a mile in altitude , this 100 % malbec is a dark ruby color in the glass . The nose and palate both exhibit rich dark fruit , with spice hints . The mouth-filling fruit has good weight and fine texture , with a long , balanced finish , showcasing its outstanding quality . ($ 41.99 )
( 97 ) DiamAndes de Uco 2015 Malbec-Cabernet Grande Reserve ( Argentina ). The vineyards providing the grapes for this 75 % malbec / 25 % cabernet sauvignon blend are three-quarters of a mile above sea level , keeping the wine ’ s acidity in balance with its other components . Brilliant dark ruby , with plenty of red berry and cherry fruit , accented by spice and vanilla notes .
Very nicely balanced , with good weight , texture and structure . ($ 34.99 )
( 96 ) Keermont Estate Reserve 2014 ( South Africa ). A serious blend of Bordeaux varietals are showcased in this stunning offering . Ripe , freshsqueezed red berries and black berries are seductively exposed from entry to finish . The long , dusty finish makes one think of
California mountain fruit , but at a fraction of the price . The 24 months in barrel and 36 months in cellar has this ready for immediate consumption — or it can be held for manyyears . ($ 34.99 )
( 96 ) Vistalba Corte B Lujan de Cuyo 2017 ( Argentina ). A lovely blend of malbec , cabernet sauvignon and bonarda , primarily sourced from vines 70 + years old . A deep , bright garnet in the glass , the nose and palate showcase the quality and complexity of this finely crafted wine . Plenty of dark stone fruit on the nose and palate , exceptional weight and texture , with a long , lingering finish . ($ 24.99 )
RATING SYSTEM |
Five stars ( 92-100 points ) A top-flight wine . Superior in taste and character and providing an outstanding price / value relationship . |
Four stars ( 86-91 points ) A superb wine and an excellent value . A wine for which customers will keep coming back . |
Three stars ( 80-85 points ) An above-average wine at a reasonable price point , one that many consumers will enjoy . |
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