In the mid-19th century, Malbec, Carménère, and Tannat left their homeland France heading to South America- future unknown. Just like most immigrants armed only by their abilities and potential, these grapes have adapted and prospered in their new homes. Malbec is reaching new heights (literally and figuratively) in Argentina, Carménère became Chile’s signature grape and Tannat is Uruguay’s wine representative to the world.
Although there are more French indigenous varieties that thrived in other countries such as Syrah/Shiraz in Australia and Sauvignon Blanc in New Zealand, such grapes remained renowned in their home country as well. Malbec, Tannat, and Carménère, on the other hand, have fallen out of favor in France and almost went extinct at some point! Carménère is currently a rarity there while Malbec and Tannat are only given attention in two sub regions in the South-West. Here are the stories of these successful immigrants who lost their home and became royalty in their refuge…Read more.
thewineofthings.com 