World Malbec Day

Last Friday, April 17th, was World Malbec Day.  It was the fifth year of this recognition that was instituted in Argentina to celebrate and bring recognition to this varietal.  The grape was first grown in the Southwest of France and brought to Argentina in1853.  In this new environment, the varietal grew and flourished and has become the flagship varietal of the country.  The celebration this year was marked by more than 70 events in 64 cities in 44 different countries around the world.  That is a big deal for a grape!

What makes and has Malbec be so distinctive and attract such attention?  At its best, Malbec has a dark purple color with plum and violet aromas.  On the palate, you have lush, rich fruit with a ripe tannic structure.  Typical of the varietal are flavors of plum, raisin, and hints of tobacco.

Argentina has some well-known producers whose wines are available in many locations.  One of the labels you can count on (and probably find) from Argentina is Catena.  I have many a fine bottle from them.

In honor of World Malbec Day, I pulled a well-aged bottle from the cellar from another fine producer that is more difficult to find.  Achaval-Ferrer is a wonderful winery, and the wine was all that one would expect.  Rich, full bodied and velvety.  Please open your palate to Malbec and discover this great varietal, so you’ll be ready to celebrate World Malbec Day on April 17, 2016!

Enjoy!