David Lawrason’s Weekly Wine Pick: an Argentine red that’s not just another malbec

Masi 2010 Passo Doble Malbec Corvina” src=“https://torontolife.mblycdn.com/uploads/tl/2012/03/feb12WinePick_Masi-Passo.jpg” alt=“Masi 2010 Passo Doble Malbec Corvina” width=“160” height=“400”>Masi 2010 Passo Doble Malbec Corvina

$13.95 | Tupungato, Mendoza | 89 points Argentina is moving quickly beyond standard malbec. This innovative blend adds in corvina (the grape used in Amarone) transplanted from northern Italy, which is where Masi is based.

The taste: Expect a fragrant nose of plums, leather and walnut, plus vague cocoa and spice. It’s smooth and poised with fine acidity. The tannin is tamed; this wine runs deep with excellent length, especially at the price.

How to drink it: This bottle is ready to go with braised ribs, stews, beef and hearty pasta dishes—a good winter wine. Decant 30 minutes to release the aromas.

LCBO 620880