2007 Xero Malbec from Bodega Lopez in the Luján de Cuyo region, Mendoza Province
Wine Reference. This wine is made with carefully selected 100% Malbec grapes from the estate Los Carolinos.
Location of Vineyards. Agrelo (High Valley of Mendoza River), department of Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza Province.
Climate. Privileged area characterized by a particular micro-climate of dry summers with warm sunny days and cool nights. Its notable temperature amplitude favors a perfect ripeness of grapes which acquire a great concentration of aromas and colors, keeping exceptional sanitary conditions.
Soil. Loamy-sandy soil of alluvial origin, stony and not very deep.
Vine-training system. These vineyards are trained through the system of low vine with a traditional vineyard cultivation method. Their high plantation density in combination with a low production of plants and varietal purity, allow grapes to reach an unbeatable quality.
Harvest. Selected bunches are hand-picked in order to count on the highest quality of grapes for wine-making. The ideal moment for harvesting depends on the level of ripeness reached by grapes, a process followed with special interest and commitment to obtain a perfect ripening level where maximum varietal definition, color and aromatic expression are achieved.
Wine-making process. Fermentation is done inside stainless-steel tanks with a strict control of temperature. In order to achieve an intense extraction of tannins and color, a slow maceration (longer contact with the grapes skin and the must) is done for the wine to obtain great color and aromas.
Tasting Notes. Red color wine with purple shades and intense aromas in the nose. In the mouth, it present noticeable tannins that provide this wine with an excellent body and great structure.
Tasting. According to the consumer’s preference, this wine can be aged inside its bottle for a period of 5 years or more. Due to its characteristics, this wine is great to accompany red meat and meals with spicy sauces. In order to preserve all its properties intact during storing, which can last 5 years or more, the bottle must be kept in horizontal position so as to maintain the wine in contact with the cork, and in places away from light and heat.
2007 Xero Malbec from Bodega Lopez in the Luján de Cuyo region, Mendoza Province.
Lentil Chili Soup
Serves 7 – Incorporate more lentils into your diet with this robust soup. It gets its full-bodied flavor from beer, chicken broth, and a variety of seasonings.
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon acceptable vegetable oil
2 medium onions, chopped (about 1 cup)
1 medium green bell pepper, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
3 medium cloves garlic, minced, or 1 ½ teaspoons bottled minced garlic
3 ½ cups Chicken Broth (low-sodium)
12-ounce can light beer or 1 ½ cups water
1 ¼ cups water
1 ½ cups dried lentils, sorted for stones and rinsed (12 ounces)
6-ounce can no-salt-added tomato paste
2 ½ to 3 tablespoons chili powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt-free all-purpose seasoning
1 teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon cayenne
6 green onions, finely chopped (about 2/3 cup)
2 ounces grated nonfat or low-fat Cheddar cheese (about ½ cup)
Directions:
In a heavy stockpot, heat oil over medium-high heat, swirling to coat bottom of pan. Saute onions, bell pepper, and garlic for 8 to 10 minutes.
Add broth, beer, 1 ¼ cups water, lentils, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, all-purpose seasoning, sugar, and cayenne. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 35 to 40 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary.
To serve, ladle into soup bowls and sprinkle with green onions and Cheddar.
Calories 222
Protein 15 g
Carbohydrates 35 g
Cholesterol 1 mg
Total Fat 2 g
Saturated 0 g
Polyunsaturated 1 g
Monounsaturated 0 g
Fiber 13 g
Sodium 126 mg
A really nice winter time comfort dish paired with a great wine from Argentina.
From my table to your’s,
WineGuyMike.
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