2009

Malbec

Malbec: a French blending grape that has emerged as the signature grape of Argentina. Instead of using Malbec in its traditional secondary blending role, the Argentinians have thrust the grape under the spotlight. The grape has shown it deserves to be there. Camino del Toro's take on the country's signature grape is a true gem. In the glass, the wine is a deep, dark red which trends towards violet. The aromas are primarily red and black fruits, notably cherries, blackberries and sweet cherries, all interlaced with notes of vanilla. Immediately upon the first sip, one knows this Malbec is a big wine with the fruit mingling with vanilla finished with round, sweet tannins. Why not pair this with another Argentina signature: steak.

2009

Syrah

While Argentina is known for its wines with one French grape in particular, the Argentinians have shown that they know what they're doing with more than just Malbec. Camino del Toro, a Barclay's exclusive, has taken another iconic French grape and given it the Argentinian flair while remaining true to the grape's origins. The result is a Syrah that could make France proud. A dark red in color with gorgeous notes of maroon, the Camino del Toro is immediately striking. Fruit and spice characterize the nose with hints of eucalyptus, wood, vanilla, tobacco, nutmeg and licorice all present in a seductive blend. The palate is classically Syrah, strong and spicy with rounded tannins and a long and lingering aftertaste. With the wine representing the classic French origins so well, why not pair this with another classic for Syrah: lamb.

2010

Chardonnay

Argentina's signature grape is a red wine grape but the country's winemakers certainly aren't slouches when it comes to making crisp and refreshing white wine. Argentina seems to have become a New World bastion for French grapes and this is no different. The Camino del Toro Chardonnay is another French grape with an Argentinian twist. The color of the wine is a yellow with an intriguing greenish hue. Tropical fruits abounds on the nose, combining bananas, pineapples and peaches. The palate has a note of honey tempered with ripe, strong fruit and a pleasantly intense minerality. A beautiful full-bodied white. Such a beautiful full-bodied white deserves to go with a stunning seafood entree.