Why I Love Malbec

Malbec is a purple grape variety used in making red wine. The grapes tend to have an inky dark color and robust tannins, and are known as one of the six grapes allowed in the blend of red Bordeaux wine.

While the grape and wine find both their origins in the Cahors region of Southwest France, New-World Malbec has arguably been met with equal acclaim and it is increasingly celebrated as an Argentine wine where both grape and technique have been perfected.

Unlike in France, where Malbec was never an easy grape to grow, it simply thrives in Argentina. Today, Argentina leads with over 75% of all the acres of Malbec in the world. In a way, Argentina reinvigorated Malbec as one of the top 18 noble grapes. Now it grows in seven countries and continues to grow in popularity.

The Malbec grape is a thin-skinned grape and needs more sun and heat than either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to mature. It ripens mid-season and can bring very deep color, ample tannin, and a particular plum and berry-like flavour component to add complexity to claret blends. The finished product is consistently described as rich, dark and juicy and intense.

To say that Malbec is food friendly is an understatement. We find that it goes particularly well with pizza and almost any hearty Italian meal. Malbec goes well with all kinds of grilled red meats as well as roasts, barbecue and strong, aged cheeses. French Malbecs are great with roasted or grilled lamb, sausages and strong cheeses. Be sure to try it with Indian food!

Event: It's Not a Dirty Word!

From weddings to product launches, conferences and galas, my team and I have organized and managed dozens of social events to help clients celebrate special occasions, mark company-specific milestones and recognize employee achievements. These events often include company parties, corporate events, after-work executive retreats, annual general meetings, post-conference celebrations and small-scale gatherings. Depending on a client’s needs, Team Thompson can provide support to employee-led social committees, or we can manage all aspects of the event to ensure a memorable experience for attendees. 

My Philosophy on Crisis Communications

In twenty-five years I have become pretty adept at managing media issues before, during and after a crisis.  I endeavour to help clients react quickly, strategically and effectively when faced with an unexpected circumstance. I oversee clients’ media relations and handle issues when a situation puts company executives in the middle of a difficult publicity challenge. I get especially impassioned during natural disasters and have been publicly commended for work during Hurricanes Paloma, Gustav and Ivan.

Michael's Genuine at Camana Bay, Grand Cayman

Had a delightful evening savouring some sumptious appetisers at Michael's Genuine, overlooking the fabulous fountain at Camana Bay. One of my favourite spots to dine or simply snack and enjoy cocktails in comfy sofas while people watching as they stroll along the water's edge at the Crescent. 

We chose the devilled eggs and wood roasted breadfruit salad paired with a de Chanceny Cremant de Loire and Catena Malbec. The breadfruit, a locally-cultivated and popular vegetable, was warm and slightly crispy on the edges and was combined with avocado, red onion and local tomatoes. Of course the deviled eggs were yummy as usual. Simply divine! Another fantastic meal and superior service! Michael's never disappoints and their recent Taste of Cayman Award for Favourite Restaurant for the second consecutive year is well-deserved. 

Posted 3 weeks ago by Caren Thompson