...Actually, just the weekly Winemaker Nights here at The Vines - and we're certainly not complaining.

Last Wednesday night it was my distinct pleasure to lead our "Noche del Enologo" featuring Alessandro Speri, owner and winemaker of Prodigo, and scion of the storied Speri family of Italy's Valpolicella region. He presented 2 award-winning Malbecs (Clasico and Reserva) - the Clasico recently won "Best Argentine Malbec" in Hong Kong! We also got to taste his first-ever Tempranillo, well received at the China tasting in October, and also by all attendees at The Vines. (Both Malbecs are available at our online store!)

Tonight we will be sampling and discussing the Ave wines, produced by Tuscan friends Mario Pardini and Iacopo Di Bugno with the help of world-renowned wine consultant Alberto Antonini's Matura Group. The Ave Malbec was included in our summer 2008 Acequia Wine Club.

Tasting notes:

Prodigo Malbec Clasico: A satiny smooth Malbec ready to be enjoyed. Bright ruby with violet hues, its aromas of cherry and blackcurrent perfectly accent the lush fruity palate. Soft tannins and a pleasant finish make this wine a complement for any rich stew or duck dish.

Prodigo Malbec Reserva: This beauty exudes aromas of sweet blackberries with a soft cinnamon undercurrent and instantly puts you at ease on first sip. Buttery vanilla and cinnamon toast flavors weave in and out of the blackberry and cranberry fruit on the palate. Outstanding acidity with an influence of chocolate and cherry on the finish makes this a perfect wine to be enjoyed with any savory meat, such as duck or goose.

Ave Malbec: Ruby in color with hints of garnet, Ave expresses the more whimsical side of Malbec. A nose full of red cherries brings to mind the Tuscan Sangiovese that the Ave team grew up with, and leads to a youthful palate perfectly balanced by soft tannins.