Lunta Malbec is produce of 100% Malbec from the southernmost parcel of the Mendel estate vineyard which lies in Lunlunta, a small district within Mendoza’s Lujan de Cuyo department as one approaches the Mendoza River. The vines are planted at elevations averaging 3,280 feet and are an high average age of 82 years. About 2/3 of the wine is aged in oak, 1/3 each new, one and two year barrels, and about 1/3 in stainless steel. The result is really, really good: dusty, arid soil-inflected aromas, earth, plum, dark cherry nuance of fine chocolate and mint; medium-full in body; richly-fruited with polished round tannins and bursting flavors; warm and invigorating to the finish; superb choice for heartier fall and winter cuisines. And absolutely splendid value!

From Bodega Neuquén, also known as NQN, estate vineyards located at Picada 15, Ruta provincial № 7, San Patricio del Chañar, Neuquén, Patagonia, Argentina, also known as "the end of the earth." Picada means pathway in the native tongue of the Mapuches, the indigenous tribe of the region. These are ancient pathways carved through the desolate and often otherwise untouched desert terrain of this northernmost region of Patagonia, some 300 meters above sea level. And in addition to serving as the address of the winery, Picada 15 is also the name of a field blend of a red wine produced by NQN. The 2009 vintage Picada 15 is produce of what may be a uniquely Patagonian, Argentine mingling of hand-harvested Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Pinot Noir. The eventual wine spends eight months in stainless steel tanks; it sees no oak as it is intended to be enjoyed young. And while the wine may invite comparison with any number of our favorites for good value, we find it perhaps more a thing unto itself. Deep ruby red in color with a wisp of aromas suggesting grape pomace, ripe berries, cherries, orange peel and spice, say, stick cinnamon; the wine builds in shape and volume on the tongue, eventually showing a real presence and giving a richness and intensity of flavor uncommon in a wine that sells for so small a price. Even from these very ends of the earth, Picada 15 is a most viable candidate for the be-all and end-all of value in red wine.

We are so very pleased to have again received this postcard from the end of the world, er, that would be Patagonia, Argentina. Produce of 100% Malbec grown in this high-desert vineyard where, not unlike Washington state, irrigation makes an otherwise marginal site a vineyard to be reckoned with on the world stage. Here, a twenty kilometre channel from the Neuquén river has made it possible for the grapevine to flourish and to produce fine wine in Patagonia. Postales del Fin del Mundo is the Bodegas' entry level wine, and it way over-delivers at its price. Ruby red in colour with hints of violet; aromas of dark berries and ripe plums with notes of vanilla, tobacco and earth; deliciously plump and round, just plain juicy on the tongue with soft tannins and a gentle crisp acidity that balance and give shape and lift to the flavorful finish. Give this little red the respect of a good decanting and reap even greater reward. Again, and in our humble estimation, this is stunning value.