Altos Las Hormigas Malbec "reserve," Recipe

1. Chill the bottle to the ideal serving temperature. For Altos las Hormigas Malbec Reserve (Valle de Uco, Mendoza, 2021), target 60–64°F (15–18°C). If the bottle is at room temperature, place it in the refrigerator for 30–45 minutes or an ice bucket for 15–20 minutes.

2. Inspect the bottle, remove the foil and cork carefully. Wipe the bottle lip with a clean cloth to remove any sediment or cork fragments.

3. Decanting: This 2021 Reserve Malbec can benefit from gentle exposure to air. If you have a decanter, pour the wine slowly into it and let it rest for 20–40 minutes before serving. If no decanter is available, open the bottle 20–30 minutes prior to serving to allow the wine to breathe in the bottle.

4. Select a large Bordeaux-style red wine glass to emphasize the Malbec's aromatics and rich mid-palate. Ensure glasses are clean, free of detergent residue, and at room temperature.

5. If serving multiple people, place a water carafe or chilled water glasses on the table to cleanse the palate between sips and bites.

6. Cheese & Charcuterie Prep

Arrange the Manchego (or chosen cheese) on a wooden board, slicing into thin wedges for easy sharing. Fan the salami or chorizo slices alongside the cheese.

7. Meat Preparation

If using grilled skirt or flank steak, season simply with salt and pepper and grill to medium-rare (internal temperature ~130–135°F / 54–57°C). Let rest 5–7 minutes, then slice thinly across the grain. Arrange the slices on the platter.

8. Vegetables & Nuts

Place charred or roasted red peppers/piquillos and olives in small bowls or sections on the platter. Toast walnuts or marcona almonds lightly in a dry skillet for 2–3 minutes until fragrant; cool and add to the board.

9. Bread & Condiments

Slice the crusty bread or baguette and toast lightly if desired. Spoon quince paste or fig jam into a small dish for spreading with the cheese. Arrange all components attractively so tasters can combine elements (cheese + quince, bread + salami + olive, steak + pepper).

10. Provide small plates and cheese knives. Encourage guests to taste the wine first, then sample pairings to notice how the Malbec's ripe dark-fruit, floral and spice notes interact with savory, fatty, and sweet elements.