This week’s Wine of the Week is a bit of an oddity for two reasons.
First, it’s made with certified organic grapes — from Rex Farr’s vineyard in Calverton. Second, it’s 100% malbec, a grape that you’ve no doubt tasted before, either by itself from places like Argentina or the Cahors region of France, or in most any local red blend.
Anthony Nappa Wines “La Strega” Malbec ($29) is somewhat reminiscent of Argentine malbec — but definitely moves well beyond the archetype.
The nose is fruity — blueberries, blackberries and even a distinct grapey note — with violet floral qualities and a rustic balsamic note.
Similarly fruity on a medium-light weight palate, there are layers of black cherry and blueberries with a distinct figgy, raisin note with florals galore. Lithe on the mid-palate, the structure here is provided by fresh acidity and just a little skin tannin. The finish is medium-length and features a delicious, savory-leaning bit of wet rock minerality.
Nappa made 110 cases of this wine. It was aged in French oak for six months and is available at The Winemaker’s Studio for $29
