Varietal Classics: Argentinian Malbec
2016 Gold: 1 Silver: 8 Bronze: 2 Commended: 3
2015 Gold: 3 Silver: 5 Bronze: 2 Commended: 8
We only introduced Argentinian Malbec as a Varietal Classic in 2011, but in that time it’s grown to become arguably the red wine cornerstone of any list, a go-to variety for meat and a terrific By The Glass glugger that is on the verge of eclipsing Aussie Shiraz.
If you want to know why it is so popular, just take a look at the feedback below and the prices of these medals. There aren’t many wine styles that are loved by the public and sommeliers alike, and can deliver impressive quality for a competitive price year after year.
Over half our medal winners here were under £9, including our staggeringly well-priced Gold from Sommelier Wine Award newbies Andean Vineyards. Taken in conjunction with the Malbec results it shows a wine style absolutely at the top of its game.
FROM THE TASTING TEAMS
‘There’s a reason why Argentinian Malbec is a brand name. The more you paid for these, the more you got.’ Jonathan Kleeman, Social Eating House
‘These had that classic leafy, dark chocolate and juiciness that the public love. It’s full but not hard. Juicy. Comfortable.’ Mya Brown, The Ledbury
‘Argie Malbec is a great flight for people who don’t know that much about wine; that’s not to patronise the wines – they were well made. Punters go for it because it’s consistent and reliable.’ Devon Pryor, Blandford Comptoir
‘This was a really good flight, from the cheapest to the most expensive. The cheaper wines, especially, had lots of fruit – opulence, but not too much oak, which the market likes. This stuff flies out the door at our place at £8 a glass.’ Harry Crowther, M Restaurants
“25% of our red sales are Malbec. It’s so hot at the moment, and has been for a number of years. Any style you get of it is going to sell.” Harry Crowther, M Restaurants
“We know these wines are good with red meat but a lot of these would be good drunk on their own as well. There are tannins, but they are ripe.” Enikő Heidenwolf, 67 Pall Mall
FOOTNOTE: The price limit for the Varietal Classics category is £12 ex-VAT. Argentinian Malbec can also be entered in the relevant New World Malbec category.