A few weeks ago (I know, I’m just feeding you all old news), my next door neighbor and I uncorked a couple bottles of wine. Both were comparable in price, but we both felt that the Malbec was superior. The Malbec was a bit smoother and easier to sip. It was plush. The Phantom, on the other hand, was a bit dryer and a bit less friendly. I think it would be superior with a generous rare steak, but on it’s own it was a bit too dry and a bit too oaky.