Malbec is grown across Long Island, you don’t see alot of Malbec bottled as a varietal on Long Island.  I believe that there are a handful of vineyards that bottle Malbec on its own.  Most vineyards use it in blending, where you will find it in may Bordeaux style blends.  A handful only bottle it when there is an outstanding vintage, like the 2007 vintage.

As a single varietal, Malbec has grown in popularity thanks to Argentina.  You can also find it in Cahors, France where Cahors grows Malbec.  When you see Cahors on the label, you know it is Malbec.

I don’t have much experience with Malbec but when I first tasted this Martha Clara Vineyards 2007 Malbec ($24) when I visited Martha Clara it captured my attention and was the clear favorite from my tasting that day.

On the nose I was picking up jam like juicy berries with hints of prune and plum, baking spice, cocoa powder, violets and hints of banana skin and some mint leaf.

The palate brought flavors that reminded me of black tea leaf, black pepper and fruit compte.  Plum and grilled fig with hints of tobacco and earth.

Big gripping tannins with nice acidity made this wine a delicious pairing with a grilled flank steak.

The finish brought some sweet vanilla with hints of baking spice.

This offering from Martha Clara vineyards was only offered to those in their wine club, which it usually only is mainly because of the low production of Malbec.  If you happen to get you hands on this save it.  Let it age a little in the bottle.  You will not be disappointed.

Furthermore, from what I have heard, Malbec will be back at Martha Clara with the 2010 vintage.  That is fantastic news — if you are a wine club member.

Sláinte!