In celebration of National Red Wine Day on August 28th, we want to highlight the exceptional Unánime Malbec by sharing five captivating facts about this varietal. Crafted by renowned winemaker Rodolfo “Opi” Sadler, Unánime originates from Argentina’s Uco Valley, known for its high altitude, abundant sunlight, and diverse soil types that produce distinct wines. Opi strives to create wines embody the terroir, resulting in premium wines with ripe tannins, concentrated flavors, and a unique personality. Malbec is a beloved varietal for its exceptional value and quality, and Unánime is a top-selling, high-end Argentine wine in the United States that perfectly represents the category.
1. Argentina’s Top Grape: While Malbec originated in France, it flourished in Argentina as its most prominent grape. Argentina is responsible for 75% of the global plantings of Malbec, and it thrives in the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza, basking in the region’s abundant sunshine. The Uco Valley, which makes up 40% of Argentina’s Malbec production, is home to some of the finest examples of this varietal, including Unánime Malbec.
2. Adventure On The Palate: The flavors of Malbec are genuinely unique and can vary greatly depending on where it’s from and how it’s made. Though it’s typically associated with bold and juicy dark fruit flavors like plum, blackberry, and black cherry, Malbec often surprises with complex notes of cocoa and violet. These diverse and captivating tastes make Malbec a favorite among wine enthusiasts. Unánime Malbec, for example, perfectly blends the concentrated flavors of plums and cherries with subtle hints of toasted coconut for a truly unforgettable experience.
3. A Culinary Companion: From juicy grilled steaks to flavorful cheeses and even decadent chocolate desserts, Malbec’s versatility elevates the dining experience. We recommend pairing Unánime Malbec with grilled steaks and roasted lamb as the wine brings out the juicy and savory notes of the meat. From mushroom dishes to dark chocolate desserts, and even game meats, its versatility opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
4. An Elegant Dance: Unánime Malbec is a prime example of Malbec wines’ velvety, well-integrated tannins. These tannins provide a luxurious mouthfeel and a delightful dance on the palate, making Malbec, unlike other grape varieties with more aggressive or astringent tannins. Unánime Malbec’s tannic structure is approachable and inviting, showcasing these noteworthy tannins with remarkable finesse.
5. Ages with Grace: Malbec is not just a wine for immediate pleasure with its fruity notes and easy drinkability. It can also mature and gain complexity over time, mainly when made from exceptional vineyards and vintages. Unánime Malbec, aged for 15 months in new French oak barrels, is a prime example of a high-quality wine that develops a rich texture, intricate layers, and a long-lasting finish.