It was a PURE EXTRAVAGANZA that began at the Ritz Carleton with Trapiche, wine makers from the province of Mendoza in Argentina. With new wines, new labels and new grape blends, Trapiche will be launching a line of ‘Personality Wines‘ throughout Canada over the next year. These thoughtfully crafted reds range from smooth, sleek Malbecs to fruity flamboyant red blends and everything in between. On this occasion, we sampled red from both ends of the spectrum with Pure (100% Malbec) and Extravaganza (a blend of three grapes).

Everything about Pure is exactly as advertised. From the delicate hand picked grapes to natural fermentation in stainless steel barrels, this wine is unoaked, simple and spectacular. If this wine was a person, it would be your smart, beautiful friend (with great hair) who handles life with sophistication, grace and elegance…and always looks good…even in humidity.

Pure smelled of luscious red fruits with a hint of spice- perfect for the eminent change of season. Paired with dark chocolate, grilled beef and Picobello cheese (a slightly dry cheese and somewhat sweet with a robust personality), this smooth wine tasted like plums and cherries while remaining both floral and slightly fruity. Pure Malbec is one of the best Malbecs I have ever tasted.

We changed locations for Extravaganza, heading to the ‘super cool’ iYellow wine cave where we were served wine from beautiful decanters by masked waiters. Extravaganza is the opposite of Pure: She is your fun friend- bold, vivacious and always enjoys a good party. A fruitier blend of Malbec, Syrah and Bonarda, Extravaganza provides the jammy scent of both red and black fruit. Although this a fruity and juicy wine, there is a warmth evident in its short spicy finish. The label itself is a fanfare of its namesake, sporting a golden carnival mask. If I had to compare this wine to another wine currently in the LCBO, I would say that this red blend resembles Epica or Apothic.

An extravagant wine must be paired with an extravagant menu. While day to day this wine is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or chicken, the evenings extravagant menu included deep fried frogs legs, duck tongue tacos and handmade chipotle and chocolate covered cricket doughnuts: the menu was a testament to Extravaganza’s big personality.

With Pure and Extravaganza, Trapiche has created wine for both ends of the wine lover spectrum. Whether you are looking for fruity and juicy characteristics or sleek and smooth, they have provided solid representation of both wine personalities. I look forward to seeing/tasting their other offerings as they roll out across the country.

Pick up a bottle of both at let us know which is your favourite.

Both Pure and Extravaganza are available at the LCBO for $15.95 each.

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