2004 Crios de Susana Balbo Syrah Bonarda -- Mendoza, Argentina

CBM -- $13

This wine shows the mixed heritage of the wine industry in Argentina -- 50% Syrah, a French grape, and 50% Bonarda, an Italian grape. There are a lot of good Spanish varieties like Tempranillo produced as well.

Balbo is one of the better producers in Argentina. Crios is her value line, but still some very nice wines. This one doesn't disappoint. Big plum and berry flavors balanced by a nice amount of oak.

Wine Spectator: 87

Our rating: B-

Mark and Sasha