Index - Malbec Argentino wine:
Introduction to Malbec Argentino
Argentine Malbec wine is a red grape variety that has established itself as one of the most appreciated in the world. Originating in France, where it is known as 'Côt' or 'Auxerrois', this grape has found fertile ground in Argentina, where it has reached the peak of its expression.
History and origin of Malbec in Argentina
Malbec wine was introduced in Argentina by European colonisers in the 19th century, but it was not until the 1990s that it began to gain popularity. The climatic and geological conditions of Argentina's wine-growing regions have proved ideal for cultivating this variety, allowing it to best express its unique qualities.
Today, Malbec is for all intents and purposes closely related to Argentina, but the grape variety comes from afar, particularly from France.
In the South-West of France, there was (and still is) a noble and famous wine region between Bordeaux and Montpellier, around the course of the river Lot. Vineyards dominated the countryside and all of them were planted with Malbec, the local vine, which meant 'bad mouth', because from these vines a strong, tannic wine was produced, like a 'bad kiss', but also ethereal and sensual, perfumed with violets. And to this was added a very distinctive dark, almost black colour.
Everyone called it Vin Noir or the black wine of Cahors.
In the 19th century, phylloxera arrived in Europe and France and quickly destroyed vineyards all over Europe. The countryside was abandoned for long decades, knowledge and traditions were lost.
In the meantime, the grape had reached various parts of the world: South America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, stopping everywhere with success, but especially in Argentina, where it arrived with the first immigrants. In the lands of Argentina, Malbec is back as big as in its heyday.
Thus an almost new wine was born, but the beauty of Malbec is precisely this, to always be itself, strong and recognisable.
Distinctive characteristics of Malbec Argentino
The Argentine Malbec is characterised by its deep, intense colour with violet hues. On the nose, it offers a rich aromatic bouquet of red fruits, such as cherries and plums, and subtle spicy notes. In the mouth, it is enveloping, soft and velvety, with well-integrated tannins and a pleasant persistence.
In Argentina, Malbec has come back to life thanks in particular to grower Nicolas Catena Zapata, who decided to plant the Malbec vine at 1500 metres above sea level.
The resulting wine is so good that it is included in the world wine rankings.
The first award was given in 1996 with the Bodegas Esmeralda Malbec Mendoza Catena Alta Lonlunta.
Let us not forget that this grape variety saved the Argentine wine world from economic collapse.
The Argentine terrain gives the grape particular qualities that differentiate it from French grapes.
Its flavour is sweeter, with gamey aromas, and the resulting wine has character and intensity, whereas the French wine is more tannin-laden, denser and more structured.
The main producing regions
The main wine regions in Argentina where Malbec is grown include Mendoza, Salta and San Juan. Mendoza is the most famous area for Malbec production and is home to some of the best vineyards in the country.
Thanks to its special terroir and favourable climatic conditions, the Malbec grape variety has found its ideal home in Argentina, becoming an emblematic variety and the most widely cultivated red grape.
In the early 1990s, Malbec made a comeback in France, and in the last 15 years it has also gained space and importance in Italy and Spain. Since 2008, the Cahors Malbec Days have been held every spring on the spectacular medieval bridge of Valentré, celebrating this great wine as in the good old days.
Gastronomic pairings with Malbec Argentino
Malbec Argentino is the ideal companion for many typical Argentinian dishes. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially asado (Argentine barbecue), but is also a good accompaniment to mature cheeses and pasta dishes.
The Argentine Malbec in the international context
In recent years, Malbec Argentino has gained great international recognition, earning a prestigious place on the tables of wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs around the world. Its versatility and advantageous price-quality ratio make it an increasingly popular choice.
Conclusions
In conclusion, Argentine Malbec is one of the most precious gems of Argentine oenology. Thanks to its fascinating history, distinctive sensory characteristics and growing international popularity, Malbec continues to win the hearts of wine lovers around the globe. All that remains is to raise a glass and to toast the success of this extraordinary Argentinian grape variety.
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