April 17th is Malbec World Day (yes, that’s what the organisers call it, no idea why, imagine if we had Book World Day). So to get the party started, a varietal Malbec, plus a Malbec-heavy blend.

Doña Paula ‘Paula’ Malbec 2017, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina (£9.99 Spirited Wines, strictlywine.co.uk)
Really attractive young gluggable style, with ripe juicy red berry fruit that stays just about on the right side of jammy, and touches of violets, vanilla and spice. All the better for being decanted an hour before serving. S-

Doña Paula ‘1100’ 2016, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (£16.00 Morrisons)
A more grown up and laid back style than the Paula (see above), this still has the gushing berry and violet notes, but it’s deeper and earthier, with some leafy blackcurrant notes (from the Cabernet presumably) and a smoky edge too. S(-)