Raphael Estate Malbec

The Raphael Estate Malbec is a bold and sophisticated red that challenges the notion that this varietal only thrives in high-altitude climates like Mendoza. Grown on the North Fork of Long Island, this Malbec benefits from a long growing season and maritime breezes, allowing the fruit to achieve full ripeness while maintaining a refined acidity. Raphael crafts this wine with a focus on structural elegance, utilizing estate-grown fruit and careful aging in French oak to create a red that is both powerful and polished.

On the nose, the Estate Malbec is intensely aromatic, offering a deep bouquet of crushed blackberries, dark plums, and black cherries, often layered with the varietal’s signature notes of violet and a touch of savory cocoa. The palate is medium-to-full-bodied and velvety, featuring plush tannins that provide a rich, mouth-filling texture. Balanced by a persistent mineral backbone, the dark fruit flavors are complemented by subtle hints of toasted oak, leather, and white pepper on a long, concentrated finish.

This is a quintessential "steakhouse wine" that demands a robust and savory pairing to match its intensity. Its weight and dark fruit profile make it an ideal companion for grilled hanger steak with chimichurri, braised short ribs, or roasted venison. It also pairs exceptionally well with earthy, umami-forward dishes like porcini mushroom risotto or a board of extra-aged Gouda. For the best expression of its complexity, consider decanting the wine for 30 to 45 minutes before serving.