Portillo Malbec 750ml

Bodegas Salentein's everyday label, named for the Andean pass, made at the estate's gravity-flow winery in the Uco Valley — three levels sunk largely below ground, minimising mechanical handling from crush to bottle. High-altitude fruit and sharp diurnal swing keep colour deep and acidity intact. Three days' cold maceration precede fermentation; roughly two-thirds sees oak, the balance stays in stainless, preserving fruit lift. Deep violet-red. Ripe plum, blackberry and violet lead, with cinnamon and clove building behind. Juicy and smooth, soft-tannined, finishing warm and lightly spiced. Reliable, honest value.

Pairing: grilled steak, empanadas, roast lamb, Manchego.