2012 Ballandean Messing About Malbec

Hands up those who have bought and drank a bottle of Queensland wine.  Yep, thought so.  Not many.  Well, you should give them a try.  I've tried a few lately thanks to some very helpful Queenslanders. It may surprise you to know Ballandean Wine Estates has been on the Granite Belt for 80+ years spanning 5 generations.  A cellar door was opened to the public in 1970 and is open 9am-5pm almost every day of the year.  They produce a large range of wines including alternative varieties such as durif, saperavi, fiano, sylvaner and this little beauty, malbec.
The 2012 is very, very good wine from a great vintage.  I just loved the colour when it was poured and I could smell dark cherries immediately without putting the glass anywhere near my nose.  The flavours were of rich dark fruits and plums which linger on the palate.  Oak is there but is not assertive by any means and plays a good supportive role.  With just over 14% alcohol and all of these lush aromas and flavours, it was like a nice warm cuddle in a bottle.  Winter is fast approaching and this would go well with a hearty meat casserole.
At $35 a bottle it is not an everyday quaffer and not within everybody's budget but it is still excellent value for money.
Until next time and remember, live simply, laugh often, wine alot.