ArretXea Grand Reserve Tannat Blend

Dark red purple with near black core. Inviting nose and medium full palate of black currant, burnt plum, and light tar with medium acidity and lip smacking, medium plus tannins, all carried through the medium long finish. That finish is dark and site particularly prominently mid-tongue. A steak wine without question, but also at home with a wide range of hearty and rustic fare. Drink now through 2028.

Dark, glass-clinging ruby red with black core. Inviting nose of tarry blackberry and burnt violets. Full palate yields the same in a cobbler with dried plum (not prune… more desiccated) and a hint of cocoa Creme. Dusty medium tannins… far less assertive than the primary variety would portend. Medium plus acidity. Evidence that Uruguay can produce premium wines at a reasonable price. True to their Italian heritage, the Pisano brothers make wines that fit the local cuisine. In this case, beef is where it's at, but any hearty fare (ribs, root veggies, tenderloin, cassoulet) will pair well. Drink now through 2028.