Viniou Reviews
H.J. Fabre’s Cuvée Reserva Malbec 2018 is a classic expression of the Argentine Malbec, hailing from the renowned Mendoza region. Made exclusively from the Malbec grape, this vintage showcases a deep, vibrant ruby color, with pronounced aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, violets, and subtle hints of mocha and spice. The palate is full-bodied, featuring ripe tannins, well-integrated oak nuances, and a lingering finish accented by dark chocolate and licorice. The winemaking process typically involves carefully selected grapes grown at high altitude, hand-harvested for optimal ripeness, and aged in French oak barrels, which brings extra complexity and structure to this Reserva.
Mendoza stands as Argentina’s flagship wine region, nestled at the edge of the Andes Mountains at elevations often exceeding 900 meters. The region benefits from a continental climate: warm, sunny days and cool nights create a pronounced diurnal temperature shift, allowing grapes to mature fully while preserving freshness and acidity. The soils are mostly alluvial, with excellent drainage, which naturally reduces yields and concentrates flavors in the grapes. Mendoza’s history is closely woven with the story of Argentine wine itself, with Malbec originating from France but finding its ultimate expression in these sub-Andean vineyards.
A robust and expressive Malbec like this pairs beautifully with grilled red meats, a hallmark of Argentine cuisine, such as asado (traditional barbecued beef) or empanadas de carne. It also shines alongside slow-cooked lamb, hearty stews, or even dark chocolate desserts. For a regional touch, serve it with provoleta, Argentina’s famous melted cheese with herbs.
For optimal enjoyment, serve this Malbec at 16-18°C to highlight its vibrant fruit, supple texture, and spicy complexity. Decanting for at least 30 minutes will further enhance its aromatic depth and allow the tannins to soften, revealing the wine’s sophisticated character.
