World Malbec Day April 17 in Vietnam: The story of the grape variety that makes Argentina's identity

Celebrating World Malbec Day in Vietnam

Argentine Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Marcos A. Bednarski, said that World Malbec Day on April 17 is a global initiative initiated by the Argentine Wine Organization, with the aim of promoting the cultural values ​​associated with the iconic Malbec grape variety of this South American country. Along with tango and football, Malbec wine is one of the cultural markers that helps the world recognize Argentina. Organizing the event in Vietnam also contributes to enhancing understanding between the people of the two countries and expanding trade cooperation opportunities between Argentine and Vietnamese businesses.

“Along with the good political and diplomatic relations, economic and trade cooperation between Vietnam and Argentina continues to develop, becoming the foundation for long-term relations between the two countries. Vietnam is Argentina's third largest trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region, after China and India, and our eighth largest trading partner globally,” the Ambassador emphasized.

First celebrated on April 17, 2011, World Malbec Day has become an annual milestone in the promotion of the culture associated with Argentina’s iconic grape variety and is now considered part of the industry’s international festival scene. The event is supported by the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs , International Trade and National Religious Affairs, together with the Argentine Wine Corporation (COVIAR), within the framework of the 2030 Strategic Plan for the sustainable development of the country’s grape industry. Over the past 14 editions, World Malbec Day has become more than just an occasion for wine tasting, but also a cultural space where art, music and emotions intersect.

Originally, Argentine Malbec was often referred to as a single grape variety, but over time the Malbec grape story has expanded. Malbec is now seen as a diverse icon, reflecting the changing terrain, altitude, and climate that define Argentina’s landscape and its distinct character. Its versatility, balance, and finesse make it a popular choice with wine lovers around the world.

Malbec is also considered an element of Argentine cultural identity - similar to football or tango - present not only at the table but also in the spirit and national pride. It is grown in many regions across Argentina, demonstrating its versatility in production and diversity in style. Most importantly, Malbec's development is thanks to the efforts of producers - who care not only about product quality but also focus on sustainability: from the environment, society to culture. It is this spirit that is shaping the future of Argentine Malbec with many new directions and increasing adaptability.

From southwestern France to Argentina's cultural icon

Malbec, the grape variety now associated with the reputation of Argentine wine, actually originated in southwestern France. During the Roman Empire, the grape was cultivated there to produce wines labeled “Cahors”. During the Middle Ages, wines from this grape variety became increasingly popular. One of the important milestones marking the spread of Malbec was its introduction to the English market. However, by the end of the 19th century, the phylloxera epidemic had destroyed most of the vineyards in France, causing the “Côt” grape to gradually fall into oblivion and lose its original position.

In that context, a new journey of Malbec began in South America - #MalbecArgentino. In 1853, at the invitation of the prominent journalist, politician, 7th President of Argentina - Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, French agronomist Michel Aimé Pouget brought this grape variety to Argentina. He was assigned to manage the Mendoza Agricultural Farm - an initiative inspired by the French model, aiming to diversify grape varieties and improve the quality of domestic wine.

On April 17, 1853, with the support of Mendoza Governor Pedro Pascual Segura, a bill was presented to the Provincial Legislature to establish an Agricultural Camp and Agricultural School. The bill was subsequently approved by the Chamber of Deputies on September 6 of the same year. This date was later chosen as the date for World Malbec Day.

A look at the transformation of the culture of enjoyment

Over the years, World Malbec Day has not only celebrated a key grape variety of Argentina, but has gradually become an occasion to reflect on deeper changes: from product quality, diversity in expression, to production thinking associated with sustainable development. Continuing that spirit, this year, the focus of the 15th World Malbec Day is on the richness of Malbec - a diversity that lies not only in the growing regions but also in the way producers seek new ways of expression, beyond the traditional mold. In the flow of creativity, Malbec is no longer a fixed mold, but an open space for personal choices.

Malbec has not only found a “second home” in Argentina, but has also become part of the country’s agricultural, cultural and visual identity. (Photo: Paul Hobbs Wines)

World Malbec Day is an opportunity to look back at the ever-changing journey of a grape variety that has been deeply embedded in the cultural life of Argentina, and also an opportunity for each person to discover their own way of experiencing it. Therefore, the message “Your Malbec” is not exactly an invitation, but a gentle suggestion that somewhere, in the midst of everyday life, there are still simple and sincere things worth enjoying in the way that each person finds most suitable.

From that story, think about the indigenous culture of Vietnam - rich, profound but sometimes still hesitant on the journey to the world. Values ​​such as culinary arts, traditional crafts, folk music or community lifestyle... all carry within them "cultural grape varieties" - which may not have received due attention, but if properly supported, can take root and spread to other lands.

Do Trang

Source: https://baophapluat.vn/ngay-malbec-the-gioi-174-tai-viet-nam-cau-chuyen-giong-nho-lam-nen-ban-sac-argentina-post545160.html