Wine Guy: Celebrate the regal red Malbec on its special day

It’s here again; Malbec World Day returns April 17 for another communications-driven focus on this regal red grape. Sure, it’s a global marketing initiative, but I don’t mind indulging as I have a soft spot for Malbec. It was one of the first wines I fell for, indeed it inspired one of my first wine pilgrimages — to Argentina.

And Malbec simply tends to go well with barbecues and grilled food in general. And while Malbec is found all over the wine world, Malbec World Day was established by wines of Argentina, which has inspired this week’s three picks. Doña Paula 2023 Estate Malbec, Argentina ($14.



99 on sale until April 26th, #631291) Full disclosure, for me Malbec’s first appeal was all thanks to it’s price-to-flavour ratio. There was a bounty of well-priced Malbecs lined up on liquor store shelves, and they tended to provide tastebud-engaging experiences. Prices have evolved somewhat since this early 2000’s analysis, but Doña Paula’s Estate Malbec harkens back to the vibe (especially while currently on sale).

It’s enticingly aromatic while bringing ample dark fruit and violet notes, with a robust entry met by good acidity and a punchy, but balanced, finish. This is an easy go-to everyday red, ready to pair with tacos or a pot of chilli. Bottom line: B, Everyday Malbec.

La Linda 2021 Old Vines Malbec, Argentina ($24.99, #598896) The label states this classy Malbec represents a combination of elegance and complexity, which is an apt descriptor. Pouring a deep and dark purple black, this redolent red wafts lush dark fruit, floral, and vanilla aromas.

This more-is-more theme continues with a plush entry—bold but sinewy — with a touch of tannin and oak on an otherwise integrated, fulsome finish that leans into more savoury and herbal tones. If you already have your grill set up and ready to go, this is the time to fire it up and toss on a ribeye. If spring cleaning is still a work-in-progress opt for a roast.

Bottom line: B+, Multitasking Malbec. Decero 2021 Malbec Remolinos Vineyard, Argentina ($29.98, available at select private wine stores) A curious thing about Argentine Malbec is the fascination with vineyard altitude.

Actually, the rationale is not surprising: higher vineyard elevation tends to mean more challenging growing conditions and added stress to the grape vines, and more stressed vines can equate to less — albeit higher quality — crop. Decero’s Remolinos Vineyard is located at more than 1,000 meter elevation, in “coarse, high mountain soil.” How much does this topography impact the wine versus the hand-harvesting, attention to detail in the winery, and 14 months aging in French oak? Who ultimately knows, but regardless it’s an engaging, fruity and aromatic Malbec that also brings leather and grippy tannins to end.

Bottom line: B+, Elegant Malbec. The Swirl: Malbec World Day tastings To celebrate Malbec World Day look for events happening around the Lower Mainland. For example, from 2:30-6:30 p.

m. April 16 and 17 the 39th and Cambie flagship B.C.

liquor store location is hosting a tasting of select Argentine Malbecs paired with taste empanadas. No tickets required..