DUROU 'EXCEPTION' MALBEC

Snap up this deep and fruity gem for nationwide delivery in time for your party. (also on www.ollysmith.com)Olly Smith, The Mail on Sunday (Dec 2013)

Made from grapes grown in the area of Cahors but declassified to Vin de France. Lovely deep violet colour, not at all brutish but a far more contemporary take on French malbec – smooth, with polished edges, but not a walkover. Nice geometry and improves when left open. Could replace your house claret – and would very likely constitute a far better deal.Victoria Moore, The Daily Telegraph (Dec 2013)

Here's a brilliant value red for all those celebrations you're doubtless planning for World Malbec Day on April 17. Vibrant, dark purple with succulent, dense, blackberry and damson fruit, a milk-chocolate creaminess, smooth tannins and then a deliciously fresh, slightly herbal finish. All in all, a very contemporary, Cahors-like Malbec, which is not altogether surprising as it comes from the Durou family's Cahors estate, Château Gaudou, although it's simply labelled Vin de France. A great wine for lamb in almost any form (except hot curry) and for steak. Rating: 88 The Wine Gang - www.thewinegang.com (Apr 2013)