Filmmaker Sky Pinnick's sunny documentary chronicles the growing success and popularity of Malbec wines, a varietal that thrives under particular climactic conditions ideally found today in Argentina. The Malbec grape—grown on a hardy plant that does well in different soils (thus creating different Malbec wine tastes)—is particularly rich and rapidly becoming a favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide. As with many ostensibly simple things, the story of Malbec offers a window on history, especially Argentina's, where wine production has had its ups and downs over the years. Viewers will learn that when the government bought up vineyards during the 20th century—effectively controlling the market—production was subsequently mishandled and the industry could not compete against far better wines from other countries. Argentine vineyards—eventually sold off to private owners—languished. But after a concerted effort to bring in new technology and methods to grow a better grape and make a superior wine, Malbec began to take off. Boom Varietal tells the tale of what followed: Argentina's attraction to vintners from America and elsewhere, the cooperation between owners to strengthen an industry, the social and economic phenomenon of family-owned wineries, and the campaign to draw “wine geeks” to Argentina to help spread the word. DVD extras include behind-the-scenes footage and a music video. A treat for oenophiles, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)
Boom Varietal: The Rise of Argentine Malbec
(2011) 72 min. In English & Spanish w/English subtitles. DVD: $24.95. First Run Features (avail. from most distributors). Volume 28, Issue 5
Boom Varietal: The Rise of Argentine Malbec
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