Bodegas Salentein Portillo Malbec 2023
- 91
- $35
- Drink by: 2026-2034
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From the Uco Valley, Mendoza, in Argentina, this is a good example of why this traditionally Bordeaux variety has made such a huge impression so far from home. A deep blood red in colour, the nose exhibits appealing red fruits, notably wild raspberries and fresh cherries, with hints of florals, animal flesh, aniseed and smoked meats. A wine of medium weight with decent length through to fine tannins, there is good focus here. Hints of sour cherries emerge on the finish. Will provide pleasure over the next six to eight years.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
