Argentinian Malbec – A Triumph of Peoples choice.

Mascota

Argentinian Malbec – A Triumph of Peoples choice.

The success story of Malbec is a compelling example of consumer power. Malbec started to become popular well over ten years ago, and the Argentinian variety (my favorite) was mainly consumed inside that country. It was only around the year 2000 when the cost of European wines increased that the USA wine shippers started looking for more affordable wine alternatives, and Malbec provided a great option.

It was then that Malbec became very popular among wine drinkers and its popularity spread through word of mouth, predominantly with consumers and not wine connoisseurs or sommeliers. In fact, Malbec was originally found more often in homes rather than in restaurants. It was the people’s choice and not the critics’ choice. This is why Malbec’s popularity is so powerful!

So how does it taste? Argentine Malbec is characterized by its deep color and intense fruity flavors with some rich velvety textures, combined with medium levels of both tannin and acidity (less than the French variety). These characteristics make Malbec an excellent red wine selection and a perfect complement to Steak or anything Grilled. In my opinion the best Argentinian Malbec wine originates from Mendoza’s high altitude wine regions of Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. These districts are located in the foothills of the Andes mountains and are up to 5,000 feet in altitude.

Malbec is now so popular; it has its own day. Malbec World Day is celebrated every 17th of April with events scheduled all over the world.

My current favorite is Mascota with grapes sourced from the Uco valley as described above, great with food or just a really smooth glass of wine on its own.

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