Benguela Cove Malbec Festival

South Africans are always up for a celebration of sorts, but when you say Malbec, it might produce a few befuddled faces. Malbec? Yes - mesmerising, more-ish, made-to-love Malbec.

There is something quite intriguing about an inky, velvety and intense red wine that entice oenophiles to learn everything they possibly can about its origin and character. But when you say lamb chop, it’s the likes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Pinotage that completes the braai-picture as household names that serves the meaty, South African palate.

But of late, it’s the lesser-known cultivars pushing through from the back with serious fruit, structure and intensity, conquering the hearts of red wine lovers all over the world.

And that is why we need to celebrate Malbec.

With its first bow in France, Malbec was raised to iconic status in Argentina where is it is now a national treasure, zealously poured with an array of meaty dishes cooked on open fires that can stand up to its beguiling intensity. But, other countries are following suit. Argentina is leading the revolution with 75% of the worlds planted Malbec and they are celebrating this with the gusto that reinvigorated Malbec as one of the top noble grape varietals.

Think plum, black cherry, leather, blackberry, smoky, spicy, violet, dark chocolate nuances, with an electric purple rim as you swirl that intense wine in your glass. What is not to love if you have a hearty cook on the go.

Not many consumers have taken the plunge to reach for a bottle of Malbec on the shelf, yet, more and more South African producers have ventured into single bottled Malbec territory and with an equally adventurous palate like the soulful Argentinians, South Africa is ready for its first Malbec Celebration.

Benguela Cove Wine Estate will be hosting the first Malbec festival on 18 April 2020 and producers from all over the Winelands will take part to showcase their Malbecs to the public. Malbec stalwarts like Doolhof, Neethlingshof, Paul Wallace, Druk-My-Niet, Nuiba, Blake’s, Anura, Bizoe, Ormonde, South Hill, Bellevue, Hillcrest and Benguela Cove will take part in the celebration. Malbec lovers will be entertained by Duende – a Flamenco & Rhumba duo consisting of the two talented guitarists Yazeed Adams and Nizaam Moses while the crowd is sipping on a variety of Malbecs. Of course, this will accompany Argentinian inspired food stands that include braai platters, Chorizo sausage rolls, lamb shwarmas and sweet treats that include the irresistible and traditional dulce de leche filled cookies.

So as the summer exists, Malbec enters with its vivacious entourage of soulful music, delicious treats and like-minded individuals. Join and be a part of the Malbec movement.

Where: Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate, R43, Bot Rivier, Hermanus

When: Saturday, 18 April 12:00 – 17:00

Tickets: Available from Webtickets: R200pp. Ticket price includes a branded wine glass, Malbec tastings from more than 12 producers and live entertainment.

Contact: Samarie Smith 082 072 5451 | Samarie.smith@benguelacove.co.za | www.benguelacove.co.za