Venta Vieja Malbec 2016

Malbec is one of those grapes that just loves the sun – which is why it’s such a star performer in Argentina – concentrating the rays into gorgeously ripe, chocolatey fruit. Plant Malbec in La Mancha, where land is cheap and sunshine plentiful, and you also have a recipe for a sensational, great value wine. It helps, too, if you happen to have the expertise of the Martínez Bujanda family, a 130 year old Rioja dynasty with a reputation for innovation and excellence. Vinification in the Bujandas’ state of the art winery has captured all the sunny flavours of the perfectly ripened grapes in this delicious, modern red. Soft enough to enjoy as a glass on its own, it’s tasty, too, with pork casserole, leek and potato gratin or chicken pie.