Happy summer, everyone!  It’s been quite a while, my goodness!  But don’t you find it nearly impossible to spend an hour enjoying a hefty glass of red when it’s a million degrees outside?  I know I certainly do.  After weeks of record-breaking heat in the Northeast, we finally had a welcome respite of cool, rainy weather this week.  And although I do prefer soaking up the sun during the few precious months of New England summer, I did welcome the opportunity/excuse to curl up on my couch, watch cheesy movies and indulge in a bottle of delicious Cigar Box Malbec.  This time, it wasn’t the clever name, the artsy picture, or even the price that caught my attention – the sign on the wine display completely sold me.  The tag line for Cigar Box is, “Freaking Awesome Wines!”  I nearly laughed out loud when I saw it, and then I promptly purchased a bottle.    Let me tell you – this is no ordinary Argentine Malbec.  This assertive wine has the same boldness as its fellow South American cohorts, but a strong alcohol profile more similar to a Zinfandel and a jammy plum flavor more similar to a Cab.  It really is quite unique, and at $10.99 a bottle it is well within budget.  This was the first time I’ve seen the wine, so keep on the look out and let me know if you come across it in your neck of the woods.  Ah, if only Red were still around, I know he would just adore this one…  So light one up and enjoy!