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From Argentina, Susana Balbo Wines
pair heavenly with food

Andrea de la Madriz, contributor

Coral Gables, FL – At a recent wine dinner at Cacao Restaurant, known for its fine foods and sinful collection of chocolates and wines, in the heart of "restaurant row” in Coral Gables, Susana Balbos' line of Crios wines from Dominio Del Plata in Agrelo, Mendoza, Argentina were flowing: Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah-Bonarda, Torrontes, and Rosé of Malbec, meant to be consumed young were up to par with the best of Mendoza’s wines. Susana Balbo’s Crios – as “kids”-- were labelled so to convey the idea that these wines haven’t quite “grown up” to the level of quality and maturity as her more expensive Susana Balbo signature label wines.

Cacao’s Chef Edgar Leal and his Sommelier, Richard Di Giacomo had prepared a memorable dinner to match them.

The evening began with a Corvina Ceviche appetizer and the Crios Torrontes 2006 wine. This light and crisp Torrontes, a white wine typical of the north of Argentina, has hints of peach pit, white pear, flowers, and orange citrus fruit. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with enticing fruit flavors. The delicate aromas and flavors were a perfect pairing with the zesty, refreshing fish ceviche.

A warm Cachapa Soufflé arrived next, paired with Balbos' Crios Rosé of Malbec 2006. The sweet smell of the corn soufflé lingered in the air while the deep vibrant rose colored wine was poured. Upon tasting there's a rush of ripe wild strawberries accompanied by some spice notes which finishes clean and dry on the palate. The delightfully fresh and fruity wine brilliantly paired with the warm, creamy soufflé.

The main course was braised lamb shoulder accompanied with Crios Syrah-Bonarda 2005 . This delicious deep red/purple wine has the intense aroma of black raspberries. The earthy, rich lamb meat was a perfect match for the velvety wine with hints of plum and raspberry.

Intoxicating roasted apples and cinnamon fragrances wafted through the restaurant when dessert arrived at the table. Served with a golden, honey-flavored Santa Julia Tardio "Late Harvest" Torrontes-Viognier, Guava and cream cheese empanadas with warm roasted apples and goat cheese ice cream were a decadent and delightful ending to an extraordinary evening and experience.

Andrea de la Madriz is a wine enthusiast and a PR executive at MGS Communications

Crios de Susana Balbo Torrontes 2006, Cafayate, Salta, Argentina ($11/99)
Torrontes was originally thought to be a variety that was brought over long ago from Northern Spain . But recent DNA testing has revealed that these vines, like the Argentines themselves, are most likely the result of a hybrid created long ago from two grapes: Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica ( Mission grape in California ). The finest quality Torrontes comes from Cafayate, in the Calchaquí Valley in the northern province of Salta . The combination of high elevation (4800-5600 feet), very dry weather, intense solar radiation, cool nights, and sandy soils brings out its best characteristics. Strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, white pear, flowers, and orange citrus fruit, this floral and fruit forward Torrontes has a beautiful structure and acidity. It pairs well with Asian foods, smoked meats, mild to medium-strong cheeses, and seafood. Keep one in the fridge at all times!

Crios de Susana Balbo Syrah-Bonarda 2005, Mendoza, Argentina ($11.99)
This 50% Syrah – 50% Bonarda comes from 40 year-old vines at an elevation of 2.300 feet in Rivadavia, Mendoza. Dark reddish, almost purple, the medium-bodied, lively wine has intense aromas of black raspberries, and loads of ripe red plum and black raspberry flavors with a slightly spicy character and a long, juicy finish. This 2005 vintage has a depth of flavor and intensity on the palate that is almost unheard of for wines at this price. Moreover, it will age beautifully and will please connoisseurs. With 13.5% alcohol content, it pairs well with a wide range of red wine-friendly foods.

Crios de Susana Balbo Rosé of Malbec 2006, Agrelo, Mendoza, Argentina ($15)
A 100% Malbec from 28 year-old vines in Agrelo, it is really a saignée of Malbec, meaning that the must acquired its color by contact with the skins. This medium-bodied, vibrant rosé color has aromas of fresh, ripe wild strawberries, flavors of strawberries and cherries with spice notes and a clean, dry finish. It pairs beautifully with light and heavier dishes, meats as well as seafood and salads.

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