Wine Wednesday | March 19th, 2025

Selected by Jesse Drury

Producer: Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino
Year: 2019 / 2021
Varietal: Malbec
Price: $118.95

Color: Red
Location: Argentina, Mendoza, Uco Valley
Additional tags: Organic

Tasting notes: Intense blackberry, plum, and cassis. Earthy undertones, hints of violet and cocoa. Silky tannins, long finish. This reminds me of those dark chocolate-covered blueberries that you only get around the holidays. It’s a bit decadent, but with tartness to keep it fresh and alive.
Nose: Dark fruit, violets, graphite, some vanilla and mocha.
Food pairing: Hearty Stews, Lamb, Steak, Aged Manchego.

What makes this wine special?
I worked once with an award-winning Malbec list. I've tried everything from the Catena Zapata line and really enjoy most of it. This is my favorite. It drinks easily, it isn't too exuberant, and it’s just a good time, where you can taste the quality and complexity without having to fight for it.

Additional information
Their vineyard was completely closed to visitors for 2 years during the pandemic. During that time, they built it to be more of a destination, adding a restaurant and much more. Worth a stop if you plan a trip to Argentina.

Selected by Kfir Ben-Ari

Producer: Chateau Maucaillou
Year: 2015
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc.
Price: $36.97

Color: Red
Location: Moulis en Medoc, Left bank , Bordeaux, France

Tasting notes: As a classic Bordeaux, the wine starts with softer tannins and great acidity that produces a long-lasting finish. The wine is rich but not too heavy, showing a pleasant balance between its minerality and earthiness and overall a pleasant addition to a fall/winter red meat dinner.
Nose: Starting with lavender, cracked coriander seeds followed by ripe blackberries and crushed cassis. Wrapped by pleasant letter, oak, a hint of star anise, and dried guajillo chile. 
Food pairing: I would pair this wine with a roasted Denver leg of venison with a wild berries sauce or a hearty beef and root vegetables Pot au Feu with a side of Jerusalem artichokes gratin.

What makes this wine special?
This bottle of vintage 1996 was the bottle that made me understand that it is not enough for me to love wine but I have to become a professional Somm as well. In other words, this wine separated the boy from the men in my wine world.

Additional information
Just one perfect red Bordeaux for any occasion and budget-friendly.

Selected by Yashvee Beeharry

Producer: Orin Swift Cellars - Papillon
Year: 2022
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot
Price: $89.99

Color: Red range from ruby organic to black
Location: USA, Napa Valley, St Helena

Tasting notes: Blackberry, cassis, and savory herbs.
Nose: Ripe cassis, blackberry, coastal chaparral, and cedar.
Food pairing: Beef Wellington or filet mignon. Herb Crusted Rack of lamb.

What makes this wine special?
It's really a showcase of Oris Swift Cellars crafting complex and flavorful blends that really reflect the diverse terroirs of California.

Additional information
This wine spends 13 months in 44% new oak.

Meet the Experts

Jesse Drury

Experience: Professional Sommelier
Background: Jesse has over 20 years of experience in the service industry, with a deep connection to wine. While pursuing his MBA, he ran a successful wine club at Boston University for two years. Today, Jesse serves as the sommelier and beverage manager at Bowery Meat Company in NYC, where he continues to share his passion for wine professionally.

Want to get in touch?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-drury-04832933/

Kfir Ben-Ari

Experience: SSA - Sommelier Society of America - Certified Sommelier, 2012
Background: Kfir is a seasoned chef and sommelier with a background in culinary excellence. A graduate of the Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France (Class of 2003), he has honed his expertise in both the kitchen and the world of wine. With a deep appreciation for the artistry of food and beverage pairing, Kfir brings a refined approach to the dining experience, seamlessly blending culinary craftsmanship with a passion for wine.

Want to get in touch?
linkedin.com/in/kfir-b-3973aa2b
https://www.facebook.com/ChefSommKfir/
https://www.instagram.com/chef_kfir/
Chefkfir.com

Yashvee Beeharry

Experience: Certified Sommelier
Background: Yashvee Beeharry is a dedicated sommelier with over five years of experience advising restaurants, wineries, and clients about wine. Known for a true passion for wine and exceptional communication skills, Yashvee specializes in wine and sake inventory management and food pairings. With professional experience at Constance Resort (2019–2022) and Zuma Dubai Restaurant (2022–present), Yashvee continues to bring expertise and enthusiasm to the world of wine.

Want to get in touch?
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yashvee-beeharry-b21739179
https://www.instagram.com/yashveebeeharry/

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