Tercos is a relatively young wine brand, but the men behind it have a long family history in the wine business.  The winery is owned and operated by Pedro and Patricio Santos, sons of Argentine winemaker Ricardo Santos.  Ricardo founded the Norton winery in the 1970′s and in more recent years has been producing wine under his own name brand, Ricardo Santos.  He was the first to export Malbec to the US and for years only focused on Malbec—although he now also produces a Semillon.

Ricardo’s sons have worked with him at his winery, and now they have their own label.  Patricio Santos is the winemaker for Tercos, while his brother Pedro manages sales and marketing.

The name, “Tercos” means “stubborn” in Spanish and is meant to represent Pedro and Patricio’s stubborn commitment to quality.  The labels feature a burro, known for their stubbornness.

The 2007 vintage marks the second Malbec vintage for Tercos.  And it’s a nice Malbec for the price.  Cherry, coffee and oak aromas give it a pleasant nose. While the palate is filled with luscious black raspberry and cherry flavors.  The fruit is slightly jammy, which isn’t my personal preference, but some consumers like it that way.  There’s a hint of strawberry on the finish.  And speaking of the finish, I’m surprised by how long the finish is on this wine.    This is not the most refined or elegant Malbec, but it’s tasty.

Wine: Tercos
Variety: Malbec
Vintage: 2007
Alcohol: 14%
Rating: 84
Price: $12.00

Find Tercos Malbec with Snooth

Disclosure: This wine was received as a sample.