2013 Pascual Toso
Pascual Toso Malbec 2013 – $8.59 Costco
I have been reviewing the Pascual Toso Malbec since the 2006 vintage and I always look forward to spotting the latest vintage on the wine shelves. Last week at Costco I found the Pascual Toso Malbec 2013 for $8.59, and this is the same price it has been for years at Costco. How would this vintage compare to past vintages? The 2013 Pascual Toso Malbec once again comes through as a very nicely balanced wine, smooth tasting, with a mix of red and dark fruit. I like the dark cherry character; it follows the wine from the aroma to finish. This is an easy-drinking and satisfying wine that certainly accommodates the budget-minded wine buyer. It’s much tastier than those factory type wines, such as the popular selling Apothic Red. I also see that K&L Wines is selling the Pascual Toso 2013 Malbec but for $11.99. The Pascual Toso Malbec is widely produced and several wine shops carry this wine, but none as low as what I have found at the Costco wine department. 88 Points. Here is the review of the 2012 Pascual Toso Malbec.
Altocedro La Consulta Select 2012 – $16.99 Costco
This Argentine wine is a big step up from the Pascual Toso 2013, but it costs almost twice as much. The Altocedro La Consulta is actually a blend of 42% Malbec, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Tempranillo, and 9% Syrah. What an interesting blend from the Uco Valley in Mendoza! In the nose, loads of black fruit and, in the mouth, very complex. This wine grew on us as we sipped it over dinner. It went very well with a marinaded rack of lamb from Trader Joe’s. It really opened up and became a very enjoyable wine. It is a big wine, but balanced, and needs a meaty meal. I will definitely purchase more of this wine and I rate it at 90 Points.
Altocedro La Consulta Select 2012
Speaking of wines from Argentina, it might be the last year for finding bargain wines from this country, especially wines like the Pascual Toso Malbec reiewed above at under $10 a bottle. The reason is the Argentine economy is experiencing dramatic inflation. The cost of labor is increasing and will reflect in a bottle of wine. We shall see what the next vintage brings for the bargain wine consumer of Argentine wines.
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