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.