Malbec Wine Celebration
Why is it that the Malbec grape varietal is often the wine answer to any food pairing suggestion?
With its plush fruit, rich color, and easy charm, Malbec has won fans the world over.
Though the official World Malbec Day is April 17, tonight wine lovers gathered together to raise our glasses in celebration of the grape that captured Argentina’s soul.
Consulate General of Argentina
Hosted at the Consulate General of Argentina in New York, this year’s World Malbec Day event featured a stunning tasting of eight wines that showed the grape’s incredible range.
From sparkling and white Malbecs, to bold single-vineyard reds, wine journalists experienced the berst of what Argentina had to offer.
Expertly guided by wine educator and lifestyle tastemaker Charles Springfield, guests explored the story of Malbec.
Malbec is more than a grape: it’s a symbol of transformation, culture, and national pride.
Malbec French Birth, Argentine Renaissance
Malbec’s origins lie in France’s Cahors region, where it was once among six red grapes allowed in Bordeaux blends.
But in the 19th century, a visionary agronomist named Michel Aimé Pouget changed the trajectory of Malbec forever.
Along with other French varietals, Pouget introduced Malbec to Argentina on April 17, 1853—a date now commemorated each year as World Malbec Day.
While Malbec struggled to thrive in France’s cooler, wetter climate, it found a second act in Argentina.
There, under the intense Andean sun and nurtured by high-altitude vineyards, Malbec truly blossomed.
The grape began to develop its signature character: inky color, juicy fruit, soft tannins, and a touch of spice.
Fast forward a century and a half, and Malbec has become Argentina’s global wine ambassador. It accounts for around 75% of the country’s red wine exports and has an enthusiastic following from Mendoza to Manhattan.
As Charles Springfield noted at the tasting, it’s a grape that adapts and surprises. “Malbec can take on different iterations depending on where it’s grown,” he said. “It reflects the landscape, the altitude, the winemaker’s vision.”
Indeed, the wines we tasted on this memorable evening embodied that range.
We began with bubbles—yes, sparkling Malbec!
Malbec Tasting
The Familia Zuccardi Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut was a refreshing surprise: bright, zesty acidity, crisp green apple, and a rich croissant-like finish that made it a perfect aperitif.
Next came the Trivento Reserve White Malbec 2024, a rare take on Malbec as a white wine. Pale, dry, and mineral-driven, it delivered tart aromas and a grippy finish—proof that this grape still has new tricks up its sleeve.
A crisp interlude was provided by Puerto del Albra’s Insolito Albariño 2020. Not a Malbec, but a highlight nonetheless, it delivered juicy white peach and a hint of rye—an unexpected delight.
Then came the reds, beginning with the expressive Finca el Origen Single Vineyard Malbec 2021. This was everything you could want in a classic Argentine Malbec: violet aromas, red and blue fruits, velvety tannins, and a whisper of strawberry on the finish.
A particularly complex and bold showing came from Alpasion 2019, a blend of Malbec, Syrah, Petite Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. With 15% ABV, it was a “big steak wine” that offered spicy black fruit, power, and plenty of swagger.
Bodega Luigi Bosca De Sangre Malbec 2021 brought an earthier dimension, with a dense, grounded structure and darker tone—a wine for slow conversations and colder nights.
Trapiche Medalla Malbec 2022, one of the oldest and most renowned names in the business, gave a polished example of classic Mendoza style.
And the Bodega Escorihuela Gascón Single Vineyard Malbec 2023—from biodynamic vineyards rounded out our flight with finesse and elegance.
More Than a Grape, a Lifestyle
Throughout the evening, Charles emphasized how wine, and Malbec in particular, is not just something we drink; it’s something we live.
“Wine is lifestyle,” he said. “It connects with fashion, with personal expression, with culture.”
He would know.
Charles Springfield’s own background in PR, TV, and lifestyle branding means he brings an unusually vibrant, relatable voice to wine.
He understands that while some wine lovers have degrees and certifications, most are just looking for something that tastes great and lets them explore the world from a wine glass.
And Argentina offers exactly that.
With its dramatic landscapes, vibrant food culture, and deep-rooted history, it brings soul to each bottle of Malbec.
And it and invites the delighted drinker to taste a bit of that magic.
