Felino Malbec 2011 (about $19)

About the Wine:  Some vineyards prefer to release their reds young to give them a distinctive style and taste.  This Malbec is an example of that.

About THIS Wine:  The center is purple with a pink rim.  Cranberry, plum, and hints of green pepper are all present in a fairly mild nose.  Some red fruit is present on the palate but tannins dominate both the palate and finish.

Drinking This Wine:  This is too tannic for a sipping wine.  Heavy meats are the only thing I can think of that might work.

Overall Impression:  Felino is simple and overly tannic.  I have had ten dollars wines that were more pleasant and had more complexity.  This wine is badly overpriced.

Bodega La Flor Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (about $15)

About the Wine:  When I looked at the vintage on this Cab I said, "If this was any younger we could be charged with statutory rape."  The representative from the vineyard assured me that this is part of the vineyard's distinctive style.

About THIS Wine:  The center is dark red with a pink rim.  Jammy, velvety dark fruit and oak combine with hints of green pepper for a very rich and pleasant nose and those flavors deliver on a palate that ends in a spicy, jammy finish.

Drinking This Wine:  Drinking this gave me an urge to eat a nice, juicy steak.

Overall Impression:  To taste this wine I would have guessed the price closer to twenty dollars than fifteen and that makes it a good value.

Pulenta Pinot Gris 2011 (about $15)

About the Wine:  Pinot Gris is made from the same grape as Pinot Grigio but it is grown and produced in a French style.  Pinot Gris is generally more bold and fruit forward than its Italian cousin.  This Pinot Gris hails from Argentina.

About THIS Wine:  In the glass it is hay colored with no distinct rim.  Melon, citrus, and honey are common to the nose of Pinot Gris and are present here.  Hints of sea breeze are also present.  The palate is fairly sharp with flavors of slightly tart pineapple leading into a green apple finish.

Drinking This Wine:  Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are usually too acidic to have without food and this one is no exception.  It would go well with cheese and fruit.

Overall Impression:  I have not seen a better Pinot Gris for less, so I have to say this one is good for the price.