Tasting - Tabali Roca Madre 2018

Name: Tabali Roca Madre 2018
Variety: Malbec
Region: Limarí Valley
Country: Chile
Price: $66

Wine Critic: "The Tabalí winery began planting on volcanic soils some 1,600 meters above sea level in the Andes Mountains near the Limarí Valley around 2011. To date, malbec is the variety that has best adapted to that altitude—perhaps along with viognier. In this example, the influence of the sun radiating on the grapes in the middle of the mountains is clearly evident. The malbec has the load of fruit it always has, but it also has an accent on the floral notes, the violet tones that are repeated on the palate amid firm tannins, and juicy acidity. One for the cellar." - 95/100, Patricio Tapia - Descorchados

Wine Folly: From "Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide" by Madeline Puckette and Justin Hammack, it is noted on page 368 that Malbec grapes are very fruity with a chocolate smooth finish. It is semi dry. It is noted that this type of grape pairs well with lean red meats. It is also noted that red plum and blackberry are dominant aromas and contributes to the fruity flavors that comes from this type of grape.

My Thoughts: Today I am drinking a red wine from Limarí Valley, located in Chile. I’ve had many different wines from Chile and they are usually hit or miss. This bottle is from the 2018 vintage year and is a pricier bottle at $66. First impressions: great. I had high expectations going into this bottle and it’s good. However, I cannot appreciate the intricacies of this bottle that makes it stand far apart. I had $30 bottles of Malbec that I preferred over this bottle. Overall though, it is very good and I think this is a great sipper without food. It is light with strong tannins, and a smooth aftertaste. Mild spices and blackberries. I think this wine will be good aged.

I went to the free wine tasting at the Wine Cellar for this tasting!

I give it an 86/100.