90+ Cellars Old Vine Malbec 23

Old Vine Malbec 23 from 90+ Cellars is a dry red Malbec bottled at 14.0% ABV. That puts it in the fuller-bodied, ripe-fruited camp rather than the lean, savory end of the grape. The listing names Mendoza as the region and California as the appellation, so check the back label for the exact sourcing. The "23" in the name most likely refers to a lot or release number rather than a confirmed vintage. Malbec of this kind usually shows dark plum, blackberry and blueberry fruit, often with notes of violet, cocoa or a little black pepper. Tannins are typically plush and rounded rather than grippy, and acidity is moderate, so the wine tends to feel broad and smooth through the mid-palate. If any oak is used, expect it to show as vanilla, mocha or light toast in the background rather than as a dominant flavor. At 14% alcohol, a warm, fruit-forward finish is the likely result. The wine suits grilled and roasted red meat. Skirt steak, ribeye, lamb chops and burgers all work, as do smoky barbecue, chorizo and dishes built on cumin or black pepper. Grilled portobello mushrooms and aged hard cheeses are good options without meat. Very hot chili heat will make the alcohol feel more prominent, so keep the spice moderate. Serve it at around 60 to 65°F, slightly cooler than room temperature. If the bottle has been in a warm room, 15 minutes in the refrigerator helps. A short decant of 20 to 30 minutes, or simply pouring into large glasses and giving it time, will open the aromas. A standard Bordeaux-style red wine glass with a generous bowl is the right choice. Wines in this style are generally made to be enjoyed on release. They are best opened within the next few years rather than held for a long time, though a modest period of cellaring is unlikely to hurt a well-stored bottle.