2005 Catena Alta Malbec

Hey, it's rained a few drops, ushering in the season for reds, ready or not. For fans of lush red wines, the 2005 Catena Alta Malbec, from a wine family that's been in the business for four generations, has everything going for it. Rich and ripe, with overtones of spice and dark berries, this is about as elegant a red as you'll find anywhere. And at less than $50, it can hold its own against old-world reds at twice the price. The beautiful thing is that it's understated and fine-tuned enough to join the table as an honored guest.

November 5, 2008