Knappstein Unearthed Malbec 2025
- 93
- $35
- Drink by: 2026-2036
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Always intriguing to see this variety made as a solo offering, rather than its usual role as a minor contributor to various blends. The Clare Valley seems to be as well suited to the grape in this country as anywhere. The fruit for this wine comes from the Provis Vineyard, which is in the northern realms of the Clare Valley. A vibrant dark purple in colour, the nose gives us aromas of cassis, black fruits, licorice, chocolate, leather and cloves. This is dense and powerful with good concentration and excellent length, through to firm tannins on the finish. A seriously good example of what Malbec can do on its own. To be enjoyed over the next ten years. One small item of bemusement, the team suggest matching this with Argentinian street food. Unless you have a long distance holiday planned in the near future, and spare luggage space, you may need to make alternative arrangements. The good news is that this is a wine that will delight any carnivore, pairing it with their favourite rare steak.
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.
