Argentina is the world’s largest producer of Malbec. With over 109,000 acres planted, Malbec represents close to 40% of the total red varieties. There is no question of a doubt it is the undisputed heavyweight here. Malbec reveals its true potential in Argentina showing a range of styles from the elegant and refined to the rich and opulent.
The origins of Malbec can be traced back to the southwest of France in the Lot Valley. Due to Malbec’s deep richly coloured hue, the Romans used to dub these “the black wines of Cahors”. Loved by Roman Emperors, Malbec vines were authorized to be planted some 2000 years ago! Wines from Cahors were celebrated on the table for the marriage of Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry Plantagenet in 1152 and they continued to see popularity throughout the Middle Ages.
On April 17th in 1853, President Domingo Faustino Sarmiento of Argentina requested a French viticulturalist to bring over new Malbec vine clippings to cultivate. Over a century later it is clear how Malbec has found its home and has flourished in Argentina.
Malbec World Day was celebrated for the first time on April 17th, 2011, by Wines of Argentina to commemorate the birth of Malbec in Argentina. It is now positioned as their star varietal and more than 60 cities worldwide celebrate Malbec World Day.
Wines of Argentina declares that April 17th is “not only a symbol of the transformation of Argentina's wine industry, but also the starting point for the development of this grape, an emblem for our country worldwide.”
Please join us in recognizing Malbec World Day this Sunday, April 17th, as we celebrate this day with our featured Malbec’s below.
Decero Malbec - $29.99
Sourced from their Remolinos Vineyard which sits at 3500 feet nestled in the foothills of the Andres. This wine offers an elegant style of Malbec which makes it ideal for food pairing. Displays intense violet aromas over a core of red fruits with notes of cherries and raspberries. It shows fresh acidity with elegant tannins that have benefited from 14 months maturation in French oak barrels. Awarded 91 points by Wine Spectator
Terrazas Altos del Plata Malbec
On sale for April @ $23.98 ($27.99 Regular Price)
Terrazas Altos sources from high altitude vineyards in Mendoza giving freshness and a vibrant purity of fruit to their wines. Dominant aromas of blackberry and dark plum mingle in harmony with cocoa hints and spicy notes of white pepper. Vibrant acidity balances off the black fruits and moderate tannin structure. Malbec in its purest form.
Zuccardi Q Malbec - $27.99
Only the finest Mendoza grown grapes are used with just a subtle touch of oak. The fine-grained tannins lend support to the ripe blackberry, pepper and rich plum flavours. This wine shows layers of complexity on the finish with cocoa and subtle clove spice. Fantastic accompaniment to any grilled meats. Awarded 92 points by Wine Advocate and 91 points by Decanter