Competition: Win Artesano de Argento Organic Fairtrade Malbec-Cabernet Franc

Now here’s an interesting giveaway for you. Argentinian producer Bodega Argento is launching a new range of quality “artisan” wines, starting with this organic, Fairtrade Malbec-Cabernet Franc. And I’m giving away specially-boxed bottles (see pic, above) to two lucky winners.

What makes this unusual is that the wine comes with a planting kit, containing a selection of flower seeds used in Bodega Argento’s organic vineyards, but which also thrive in the UK’s climate, so you can cultivate your own organic garden at home.

Bodega Argento’s Ethics

Artesano de Argento’s grapes come from organic vineyards at the foot of the Andes, in Argentina’s winegrowing heartland of Mendoza. Here, the 1,000-metre altitude, bright sunshine and clear water from the Andes create ideal growing conditions for the grapes.

No pesticides or synthetic fertilisers are used, while waste water recycling, drip irrigation, 100% recycled packaging and Fairtrade accreditation all contribute to the vineyard’s ethical winemaking policy.

Bodega Argento is working with the University of Agricultural Sciences in Mendoza on research into plant and flower species’ benefits to organic agriculture. For example, flowers planted between vine rows can attract pollinators and other wildlife, or act as natural defences against pests or disease.

The Wine

This deep-purple Malbec (70%)/Cabernet Franc (30%) blend is heroically juicy, with strong flavours of plum, blueberry and lilac from the Malbec and a hint of smokiness from the Cab Franc.

Punchy and well balanced, this’ll go down a treat with a lean steak or some blue cheese.

The wine debuts in Sainsbury’s in January 2020, retailing at £10 a bottle.

The Competition

To win the wine, share this post on Facebook, tagging @wineninjas, or message me directly, via the Contact page, telling me what you’d pair a Malbec/Cabernet Franc blend with. I’ll let the winners know within the next couple of weeks. UK only, I’m afraid.