Wine: Great Argentinean flavours are crossing borders

ARGENTINA has always been slightly overshadowed by its neighbour Chile when in comes to wine, but there are some gems out there.

Clos de Los Siete 2007 – £12.99, Majestic

A combination of classic Bordeaux varieties Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as 20 per cent Syrah, give this hand-harvested wine fat, dense, almost port-like red fruit scents with a spicy flavour.

Tesco Argentinean Reserve Malbec 2008 – £4.57

With rich cherry and plum flavours, this shows touches of coffee and oak-spiced complexity, with a silky long finish.

Fairhills Mendoza Vineyards Rosé 2008 – £5.19, Tesco

Every bottle sold helps build day care centres, schools and community centres.

Wine of the week

Estiba 1 Torrentés 2007 – £6.99, Majestic

This Estiba 1 captures all of the explosive aromatic character of this Argentine grape, with lively notes of citrus and peach.

Bargain of the week

Tesco Finest* Guentota Estate Chardonnay Viognier 2008 – £4.99

Tropical Chardonnay flavours robust enough to cope with roast pork and delicious with roast chicken.