Wine review: 2011 Luca Malbec, Uco Valley, Argentina

From respected winemaker Laura Catena, a rich, ample Malbec made from older vines from three vineyards in the Uco Valley of Argentina. The 2011 Luca Malbec, mostly aged in French oak, has an inviting bouquet of black cherries, strawberries, chocolate and tobacco. The wine is smooth and balanced, a classic example of Malbec.

Of course, it’s a beautiful wine with grilled steaks or chops, with a hearty stew, or braised pork or lamb shanks. Go ahead, throw bold flavors at it. This Malbec can take it.

Region: Mendoza, Argentina

Price: $26 to $30

Style: Rich and balanced

What it goes with: Grilled steaks and chops, hearty stews, braised meats

Where to find it: Amazing Grapes Wine Store in Rancho Santa Margarita, (949) 888-9007, www.amazinggrapeswinestore.com; Fine Wine House in Pasadena, (877) 981-6555, www.finewinehouse.com; Hi-Time Wine Cellars in Costa Mesa, (949) 650-8463, www.hitimewine.net; Total Wine & More in Northridge, (818) 700-0130, and Tustin, (714) 665-4257, www.totalwine.com.

irene.virbila@latimes.com