A Taste of Argentina: Malbec World Day, the Tango, and the Spirit of Terroir
Wine, like the tango, deeply embodies passion and emotion. Both create a sensory experience imbued with immense cultural significance and identity. In essence, both wine and tango are more than just a beverage or a dance; they are cultural expressions that engage our senses, evoke emotions, foster social connections, and carry rich histories and traditions. They both offer a journey of discovery and appreciation for those who delve deeper into their complexities. It's perhaps not surprising that in Argentina, the land of tango, wine (especially Malbec) also holds a place of national pride and passion, leading to events and experiences that beautifully blend these two iconic elements of their culture.
Recently, I had the distinct pleasure of attending a unique celebration for Malbec World Day, generously sponsored by Wines of Argentina and the Consulate General of Argentina in New York. The event offered a delightful immersion into the diverse wine offerings of Argentina. As guests arrived, we mingled and sampled a selection of Argentine wines. After all, Argentina offers more than just Malbec—delighting our palates with a Familia Zuccardi PetNat and Polígonos San Pablo Pinot Noir, Puerta Del Arbra Insólito Cabernet Franc as well as Finca El Origin Reserve Malbec, Bodega Luigi Bosca Los Nobles (94% Malbec & 6% Petit Verdot ) and Alpasión Gran Malbec.
The experience began with an opportunity to indulge in the various wines of Argentina, setting the stage for a guided tasting led by the esteemed Sommelier Charles Springfield. He expertly guided us through the fascinating facets of Malbec and Argentina's broader viticultural landscape.
The guided tasting featured three whites and five reds:
Familia Zuccardi Blanc de Blancs NV: Made from 100% Chardonnay, the lively bubbles bounced with zesty lemon, toast and crisp green apple notes with delicate white floral hints. Bright, refreshing, and charming with a clean, invigorating finish.
Trivento Reserve White Malbec 2024: Crisp and clean, vibrant character, bright acidity and a lively, citrusy backbone. Loads of lime, and grapefruit, sweet pineapple, acacia alongside green apple and pear with a touch of minerality. Incredibly interesting
Puerta Del Arbra Insólito Albariño 2020: Nestled in the Balcarce region of Buenos Aires, Argentina, this is the area's only winery. I had the delightful opportunity to meet Sebastian Perez Compane, a proud member of the family, at the event. He shared how their passion for winemaking started as a way to share special moments with loved ones—and over time, it blossomed into the region’s only boutique winery. It’s a charming story of family, tradition, and dedication that truly sets this place apart. Ripe white peach and subtle tropical aromas with a hint of salinity. Creamy texture with bright acidity, juicy citrus enveloped in savory bread dough and resinous herbs. Persistent, elegant finish.
Finca El Origin Single Vineyard Malbec 2021: Ripe blackberries and plums with vanilla, sweet spice, and violet notes. Elegant, full-bodied palate with dark fruit, chocolate, and subtle oak. Velvety tannins and a long, satisfying finish.
Alpasión Private Selection 2019 (Malbec, Syrah, Petit Verdot & Cabernet Franc): Ripe black fruits with spicy notes, violet, and dark chocolate. Rich, full-bodied, and velvety with concentrated blackberry, plum, and spice. Firm, well-structured tannins and a long, complex, satisfying finish.
Bodega Luigi Bosca De Sangre Malbec 2021: Deep ruby with violet reflections. Intense ripe black fruit aromas with vanilla, chocolate, and spice. Full-bodied and rich with a velvety texture, firm tannins, dark fruit, mocha, and minerality. Long, elegant finish.
Trapiche Medalla Malbec 2022: Deep violet hue. Enticing ripe black fruit aromas with vanilla and spice. Full-bodied and powerful with concentrated lush plum, juicy blackberry, and elegant oak. Well-structured tannins and balanced acidity. Long, memorable finish.
Bodegas Escorihuela Escorihuela 1884 Single Vineyard Malbec 2023: Deep, intense violet color. Alluring ripe black fruit aromas with delicate violet, spice, and vanilla. Velvety palate with concentrated blackberry, plum, and mocha. Well-integrated tannins. Long, persistent finish.
Complementing these exceptional wines were delicious culinary bites, perfectly paired to enhance the tasting experience. Adding another layer of Argentine artistry, we were captivated by the incredibly talented tango dancers, their movements echoing the passion found within the wines. The entire event enveloped us in a vibrant Argentine cultural atmosphere.
What truly stood out amongst these artisanal wines was their undeniable purity, energy, and the palpable spirit of the terroir. Each sip offered a glimpse into the unique land and dedication of the Argentine winemakers.
The Malbec World Day celebration was a vibrant testament to the rich cultural heritage of Argentina. The exceptional wines, particularly the diverse expressions of Malbec, alongside the captivating tango and authentic atmosphere, created a truly memorable experience that highlighted the passion and terroir inherent in Argentine artistry.
Watch the Instagram Reel A Taste Of Argentina
