Born in France, the Malbec grape conquered the world after crossing the Atlantic Ocean and bearing fruit in Argentina, where it represents 25.5% of the total area of vineyards cultivated in the country. In 2024, Argentinians exported 1,269,489 hectoliters of Malbec wine to 124 countries, equivalent to US$$ 429.75 million. The main destination market for Malbec is the USA, followed by the United Kingdom and Brazil. It is no coincidence that the idea of creating World Malbec Day, celebrated every April 17th for the past 24 years, originated in Argentina.
Besides being the variety most identified with Argentinian wine, the Malbec grape is also the one that has best adapted to the country's geographical diversity, with vineyards from north to south of the territory, from Jujuy in the northwest to Chubut in Patagonia. The highest Malbec vineyard in Argentina is located in the city of Uquía, at 3,329 meters above sea level.
Part of the history of this grape is represented in a visual allegory that adorns one of the most coveted labels of the Catena Zapata winery, aptly named Malbec Argentino. It features four female figures: Eleanor of Aquitaine, who was Queen of France and England; an unknown immigrant who is said to have brought the first Malbec vines from France to Argentina; the phylloxera plague, which devastated French vineyards in the 19th century; and Adrianna Catena, belonging to the fourth generation of the winegrowing family considered responsible for the rebirth of quality Argentine wine after decades of stagnation.
The Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino is one of the many labels of this variety that can be found at the Adega do Castelo Saint Andrews, which has more than 1800 bottles from all over the world and has been awarded prizes both in Brazil and abroad. Elected for six consecutive years with the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine, the Adega do Castelo Saint Andrews received the Melhores da Taça award from Prazeres da Mesa magazine in 2024 in two categories: Wines of Great Excellence and Best Brazilian Wine List.
Although quite well-known to Brazilians and having already earned the title of Best Winery in the World in 2023 by World's Best Vineyards, Bodega Catena Zapata is not the only one to make exceptional wines with the Malbec grape. Viña Cobos, whose wines are crafted by the American winemaker Paul Hobbs, was the first to achieve 100 points from international critics, a feat also achieved twice by the Zuccardi family with the masterful Piedra Infinita. These exceptional wines can also be purchased by those who visit the Saint Andrews Castle and its award-winning Primrose Restaurant.
Discovering the treasures kept in the Saint Andrews Castle Wine Cellar is a must-do for wine lovers visiting Gramado – and it's even open to those not staying at the hotel. At the only Relais & Châteaux in Southern Brazil, you can participate in guided tastings led by winemakers and owners of guest wineries as part of the Wine Experience program, schedule a Wine Moment to enjoy two wines of your choice, or even have a paired dinner at Primrose.
Contact the Saint Andrews Castle reservations team to discover the unique wine-themed celebration options available – and experience unforgettable moments.
