Astica Malbec 2011 Cuyo Argentina

Made with hand-harvested grapes from vineyards throughout the Cuyo/Mendoza region of Argentina, just east of the Andes, this stainless steel fermented 100% Malbec is a decent showing for the price (ranges from under $4 to $7).

Dark ruby colors in the glass, pastel aromas of violets and blueberry under a palate of blackberry and spice, pepper and hints of mint or eucalyptus, with a medium finish.

Fattoria Le Pupille Elisabetta Geppetti Morellino Di Scansano 2009 DOCG

This wonderful Morellino di Scansano is a Tuscan blend of mostly Sangiovese with a bit of Alicante and Malvasia Nera. Dark bluish ruby colors in the glass, as boysenberry and vanilla aromas permeate intensely, with exotic dark licorice scents and even a bit of wild underbrush, while on the palate resinous dark chocolate notes with cassis and red berries fill the mouth. Nice balance and long finish. Found this one at Il Poeta Restaurant.