There is a general misconception that all “red blends” are alike. And yes, there are several examples out in the market that support this opinion. It’s what happens when the blending of varietals is being done to make simple, unassuming wine that creates little or no thought about what is actually being tasted. However, when the blending is done to enhance the aspects of the grape varieties being used, as is the case with this affordable blend from Argentina, the results are wines with a unique character. Tilia has long been a reliable label which has stood its ground as the South American wine boom flooded the market. And while they make lovely single varietal wines, their Syrah-Malbec blend is the bottle I return to time and time again. It is certainly easy to drink (a trait that is desired in a blend), but it’s the addition of the Syrah that seems to give just a bit of an edge from acidity that adds red fruit flavors to the typical dark Malbec notes. It’s also a flexible wine; you can enjoy it alone or with food (from cheese to roasted meat). So, if you’ve shied away from red blends, this one might bring you back.