Gaucho gets behind Malbec World Day

Published: 17 April, 2012

With the world's focus tuned to Malbec, the Gaucho restaurant group is showcasing its 68-strong list and offering diners a free glass of the English Malbec made at Chapel Down from Argentinian grapes.

Phil Crozier, Gaucho's wine director, said all of its listed Malbecs are on show at its Cavas de Gaucho store at Picadilly today - where he will be offering a tutores tasting by region.

The group, which comprises 16 restaurants mainly in the UK, has a 25-strong list of Super Malbecs on its menu, which changes every six months. Although in theory similar to the Super Tuscan label, Crozier said: "It's not just about high-end exclusive single vineyard wines, but more about regional differences, and very much related to terroir."

As for its involvement in Malbec World Day, Crozier said it was "entirely logical" for the group, since it has been championing the variety for years.

"We have the biggest selection of Malbecs anywhere in the world, outside of Argentina," said Crozier. Obviously there is a lot more to Argentina than just Malbec - but it helps get people interested and educated a bit more about the regions, terroir, the differences between the north and south. There's no doubt people love Malbec."

He says in future he would like to highlight the regional differences in the variety - from Agrelo to Uco Valley and beyond.

He said Argetina's high inflation rate has been "very difficult" for the country's producers, who have, "to their credit, been very sensible" and managed to absorb some of the increases. "They've built a very strong export market," they said, and are wary about price hikes which could deter buyers.

Malbec World Day has grown in popularity this year, with a host of operators supporting the event.

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