At a glance

Producer

Bodega Bousquet

Region

Mendoza, Argentina

Grape variety

Malbec

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$12 - $18 (Retail, average current pricing from Wine-Searcher and major merchants)

Tasting profile

Rich dark plum and blackberry fruit, hints of spice and vanilla from oak aging, smooth tannins, and a velvety finish

Evolution: Fruit will mellow and integrate more with time, while secondary notes of leather or tobacco could emerge in subtle fashion

At peak: At peak, the wine balances ripe fruit with soft tannins and gentle oak influence, offering smooth texture and pleasant complexity

Structure

Acidity

Moderate acidity providing freshness and balance typical of Mendoza Malbec

Tannins

Medium tannins, generally round and approachable due to Reserva aging protocols

Alcohol

Medium-high alcohol (~13.5-14.5%), well integrated

Aging potential

Limited to short term aging; best consumed within 5 years of purchase, with slight improvement possible up to 3 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

1 to 3

Optimal window

5

Current status

Ready to drink now; this NV Malbec Reserva style is made for early enjoyment but can hold for a few years.

Current condition

Stable and well balanced with fresh fruit and smooth tannins, typical of a Reserva level Malbec from Mendoza designed for accessible drinking.

The peak drinking window aligns with the wine's fruit freshness and moderate tannic grip maturing into a harmonious palate; past this period, fruit fades and tertiary notes may dominate, reducing appeal for this style.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled meats (beef steak, lamb), roasted vegetables, smoked cheeses, and hearty pasta dishes with tomato-based sauces. As it evolves, can pair nicely with mushroom risotto or aged cheeses.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — Decanting softens the tannins, opens up the fruit aromas, and allows the wine to reveal its complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Bodega Bousquet practices sustainable viticulture, including organic farming and water conservation

Bodega Bousquet is recognized for its organic certified vineyards and sustainability commitment in Mendoza, minimizing environmental impact.