Winemaker Notes
Tradition is the first or introductory wine from Haut Monplaisir. As with all the domain’s cuvées, this is 100% Malbec. Tradition is made and raised primarily in concrete vats, with 30% raised in neutral barrels. Aromatically intense, with rich spicy mineral fruit, this is a long, earthy rendition of Malbec.
Celebrated for its bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec has enjoyed runaway success in Argentina since the late 20th century. The grape originated in Bordeaux, France, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. A French agronomist, who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. Somm Secret—If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet with its combination of dense fruit and soft tannins.
Within the Southwest of France, this is the one region outside of Argentina that is today almost exclusively dependent on Malbec. Locally the variety is called Cot, and makes a dense, earthy and black fruit dominant red wine. Both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean both have a strong influence on the climate of this region.