15 Apr For World Malbec Day – Espuela Del Gaucho Reserve Malbec
World Malbec Day hits Saturday April 17,
an apropos date to salute a type of wine
that is now quite popular around the planet.
But there was a time when Malbec
was on the ropes.
Before we celebrate World Malbec Day,
let’s recognize Wine Thursday!, our weekly
good-wine-at-a-good-price-that-you-can-find review.
Generally speaking, Malbec is a good-value red
that is often underrated.
This week’s featured wine is a classic representation
of the varietal.
This grape variety is a scrapper.
Once widely-planted in Bordeaux, Malbec
was all but abandoned in France after a
severe frost wiped out a significant number of
Malbec vineyards in the mid-50’s.
Just when it appeared no region was willing
to pick up the Malbec baton, it found a new
and very prosperous home in an unlikely
location…the rugged, high-altitude terrain
in and around the Andes Mountains
in South America.
Now it has become the unofficial national wine
of Argentina.
We Americans like it too.
I was somewhat surprised to discover
that Malbec is now the 4th most popular
red wine in the U.S., behind only Cabernet Sauvignon,
Pinot Noir and Merlot.
The 2019 Espuela Del Gaucho (translation: gaucho spur)
is not as full-bodied as a Cabernet but
definitely more substantial than a Pinot Noir.
It’s dry with dark fruit flavors and a savory finish.
Two words describe this Malbec: intense and intriguing.
It’s a wine that grabs your attention.
Steak, an every-day staple in Argentina,
would be a great pairing with Espuela Del Gaucho.
It would also go well with roasted vegetables.
You can find Espuela Del Gaucho Reserve Malbec
at Ralph’s for $12.84.
Fred Meyer carries it for $13.99.
The price at QFC is $14.88.
Or you can order it from Drizly for $16.08.