When it comes to holidays, we’re firm believers in celebrating as many as possible… especially when they involve wine. Thankfully, our friends at Willow Park Wines & Spirits feel the same! 

In honour of International Malbec Day this April 17th, Willow Park Wines & Spirits have put together a marathon that we can truly stand behind. Don’t worry though, there’s no running involved in this one (unless you count running back to your kitchen for refills). 

So, let us introduce to you the Virtual Malbec Marathon

The Virtual Malbec Marathon consists of 9 virtual tastings to celebrate the wines of Argentina and pay ode to Malbec. Unlike some marathons, this one is taking place over the course of three days, so you’ll even have time to catch your breath. Each leg of the marathon will be hosted alongside Owners, Head Wine Makers, Viticulturists and Managers of some of Argentina’s greatest vineyards. That means you’ll be sippin’ wine and learning from some incredible experts.

Here’s what you need to know to take part!

Malbec Marathon #1

Where: Familia Zuccardi
When: Friday, April 16th, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Who: Export Manager Cecilia Carrasco and Trusted Expert Peter Smolarz

Malbec Marathon #2

Where: Bodega Norton
When: Friday, April 16th, 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
Who: North America Export Manager Marcelo Soiza and Trusted Export Michael Biggattini

Malbec Marathon #3

Where: Susana Balbo Wines 
When: Saturday, April 17th, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Who: Owner and Founder, Susana Balba and Trusted Expert Samantha Nelmes 

Malbec Marathon #4

Where: Bodega Escorihuela Gascón 1884
When: Saturday, April 17th, 1:00 PM-2:00 PM
Who: Viticulturist/Brand Ambassador Celeste Pesce and Trusted Expert Alex Conne

Malbec Marathon #5

Where: Doña Paula 
When: Saturday, April 17th, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Who: Vineyard Manager Martin Kaiser and Trusted Expert Samantha Nelmes

Malbec Marathon #6

Where: Zorzal Vineyards & Winery
When: Saturday, April 17th, 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
Who: Winemaker Juan Pablo Michelini and Trusted Expert Peter Smolarz

Malbec Marathon #7

Where: Bodega Salentein 
When: Sunday, April 18th, 12:00 PM-1:00 PM
Who: Co-Owner Bernard Pon and Trusted Expert Stephen Turik 

Malbec Marathon #8

Where: Bodega Catena Zapata 
When: Sunday, April 18th, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM
Who: Export Director Marina Castillo and Trusted Expert Michael Bigattini

Malbec Marathon #9

Where: Bodega Luigi Bosca 
When: Sunday, April 18th, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM
Who: Head Winemaker Pablo Cuneo and Trusted Expert Kathryn Woods

The Malbec vine was introduced to Argentina in 1853 with the goal of transforming the country’s wine industry. And lucky for us all… that’s exactly what it did! Over the past 168 years, Malbec has become not only the grape of Argentina but adored all over the globe (including right here in Calgary!)

So, it’s time to ditch your runners, grab your glasses, and get ready for a marathon through Argentina to celebrate. 

Sign up for the Willow Park Wines & Spirits Malbec Marathon on their events page now!