2010 Zuccardi ‘Q’ Mendoza, Argentina Malbec

About This Wine

Zuccardi taps top Mendoza growing areas for its “Q” Malbec.

The Mendoza region of Argentina is large, which means it’s home to multiple microclimates — some of which are ideal for growing top-quality Malbec grapes, some better suited for other varieties.

Two of the best areas for Malbec are La Consulta and Vista Flores, both of which contribute grapes to the “Q” cuvee. La Consulta is in the heart of the Uco Valley, where a long-established irrigation system assures consistent water exposure for the vines. Vista Flores is noted for its sandy loam soil, which stresses the vines so they produce highly concentrated fruit.

All of the fruit grown by Zuccardi is of exceptional quality, so the challenge is to blend in the right proportions in order to craft a complex and balanced wine. As one member of our tasting panel put it, when it comes to the 2010 vintage, the Zuccardi “Q” gets a solid “A.”

About Malbec

A midseason ripener, it can bring very deep color, ample tannin, and a particular plum-like flavor component to add complexity to claret blends.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:100% Malbec
• Grape Source:La Consulta, Vista Flores and Agrelo Growing Areas of Mendoza, Argentina
• Aromas & Flavors:Violets, Black Fruits, Spice and a Hint of Chocolate
• Aging Vessels:Medium-Toast French Oak Barrels for 12 Months
• When to Drink:Now Through 2015
• Food Pairing Suggestiona grilled steak with a multi-herb rub.

Member Ratings

Recipes.

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  French Lamb Shank Stew With White Beans This recipe, from "The Mauna Loa Macadamia Cooking Treasury," matches wonderfully with Malbec, Merlot Sangiovese or Rhone red blends. It serves 6... Get The Recipe
  

  Tuscan Style Roasted Game Hens If you're looking for a change from turkey or ham this holiday season, try this easy-to-prepare dish that matches well with both white and red wines. It serves 6... Get The Recipe
  

  Smoked Salmon Penne Pasta In a world of "anything goes" food-and-wine pairing, we're always on the lookout for recipes that match well with either white or red wines. This is one such recipe, and it makes two servings... Get The Recipe
  

  Pork Tenderloin With Tart Cherry Port And Caraway Sauce This delicious recipe from Sonoma County's J. Fritz Winery matches beautifully with almost any red wine. It makes 4 to 6 servings. Get The Recipe
  

  Slow Cooking Stew A flavorful wine such as Malbec or Merlot calls for a flavorful main dish. This tasty recipe fits the bill deliciously, and makes about 6 servings. And now that the kids are back in school, be aware that it's a meal you... Get The Recipe
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  Tomato Pesto Pasta A wonderful match with Cabernet Sauvignon, this recipe helps bring out the fruitful quality of the wine. It also matches nicely with other red wines, and serves 4. Get The Recipe
  

  Pan Fried Lamb Chops This recipe, which makes 4 servings, features flavors that can be enjoyed with virtually any red wine. Turn it into a complete meal with a side dish jasmine rice. Get The Recipe
  

  Pinot Noir Sauce Try this flavorful sauce over lamb or prime rib, and serve with Pinot Noir, Malbec or a red blend... Get The Recipe