The spooky label alone is enticement enough to check out Alma Negra, a nonvintage sparkler from Mendoza, Argentina that’s part of the Ernesto Catena brand. This gentle rose is made from a strange blend of malbec and pinot noir, and the resulting wine is heavy with nutty, mushroomy, almost smoky aromas. On the palate the bold wine — which is closer to rose gold in color than the more typical pink — offers a mild level of sweetness and a touch of berry character, with notes of white flowers and white pepper adding some nuance. The finish is surprisingly savory, with a reprise of those roasted nuts from the nose. It’s strange stuff, but worthwhile.

B+ / $18 / vineyardbrands.com

NV Alma Negra Brut Nature Rose Mendoza

$18

8.5

Rating

8.5/10