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Wines of the week: Berry's Argentina Malbec, Pulenta, Mendoza, 2010; Palataia Pinot Grigio 2011; Domaine La Borie Blanche, Minervois La Livinière 2007

Terry Kirby selects the best bottles to buy

Terry Kirby
Thursday 12 April 2012 17:58 BST
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Sunday lunch

Berry's Argentina Malbec, Pulenta, Mendoza, 2010

Celebrate World Malbec Day this Tuesday with an exceptional bottle produced for Berry Bros & Rudd by the esteemed Pulenta Estate made with grapes grown at 900m above sea level on the edge of the Andes. Initially ripe and fruity, but with crisp acidity, developing into a fantastic long finish in which the brambly, peppery flavours linger long on the palate. Crying out for a chargrilled steak or cut of venison. £10.95, bbr.com

Midweek meal

Palataia Pinot Grigio 2011

The label bears an Italian-sounding name and there is no mention of the origins of this wine until a passing reference on the back. But M&S should not be nervous about selling a German Pinot Grigio, as this is vastly superior to many of the more insipid Italian versions. Medium-bodied, packed with vibrant fruits, refreshingly crisp and dry, it's a great midweek bottle for fish, white meats or salads. £7.99, Marks & Spencer

Bargain basement

Domaine La Borie Blanche, Minervois La Livinière 2007

From the sun-baked Minervois area comes a typically southern French blend dominated by Syrah grapes. Unpretentiously robust and rustic, full of dark-fruit flavours and with a lovely spicy edge that comes from plenty of time in the bottle, this is a great buy for spring barbecues or is perfect with a bowl of pasta with a tomato-based sauce. £7.99 (each for two bottles as part of a purchase of a minimum six bottles; normally £9.99. Until 23 April), majestic.co.uk

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