Malbec
Although typically associated with New World wine regions, the story of Malbec actually originates in France. Referred to by French winemakers as ‘Côt’, Malbec is most prevalent in Bordeaux where its rich, fruity flavours are the perfect addition when blending. Nowadays, of course, Malbec is more synonymous with Argentina, where it thrives in the sun-drenched climate. So much so that it’s now considered Argentina’s principal red grape. Malbec has a real purity of fruit, is complex yet easy drinking and works extremely well as a single varietal. So it’s no surprise that this grape variety has become so popular the world over!
Malbec Tasting Notes
Blackberry
Plum
Cherry
Pepper
Bramble
This grape is famed for its dark fruit flavours and long finish. Expect to find copious amounts of blackberry, plum and cherry. In France, the grape’s plummy flavours are accompanied by black pepper and smoky notes of tobacco, which lends itself better to blending with other varieties. This Old World Malbec is comparable to Merlot in flavour and style. New World Malbec on the other hand is heavier in bramble fruit flavours, and is generally noticeably more fruit-driven due to being grown in a warmer climate. You may also detect subtly sweet notes of vanilla, chocolate and liquorice too!
Malbec Wine Style
Full and Fruity Red Wine
Light Full-BodiedMalbec tends to have high tannins and high alcohol, with a medium to full body. And it’s these big, bold characteristics that make Malbec a great variety for oak ageing. The dark fruit gives these wines a robust inky purple hue and a wonderful depth of flavour, all of which becomes wonderfully complex after a little maturation. Although great on its own, Malbec is sometimes blended with Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon to produce full and fruity red wine blends.
Wine Regions
Argentina
France
New Zealand
Australia
While this grape originates from France, especially in the South-Western region of Cahors, Malbec has definitely found a new home in Argentina. The quality of Malbec in the Mendoza region of Argentina is endorsed by the individual regions and various appellations. Malbec is still prevalent in Bordeaux for blends and appellations of South-West France such as Bergerac, and certainly shouldn’t be overlooked if you’re a Malbec fan. It’s also worth exploring New Zealand and Australia if you fancy breaking away from Argentinian Malbec and trying something a little different.
What Food Goes with Malbec?
Food pairings with Malbec always tend to revolve around red meat. Maybe it’s because the locals in Argentina always open up a Malbec when the BBQ is firing. So we suggest a shoulder of lamb or slow cooked meat stews. It’s also robust enough to stand up to spicy dishes; chorizo, other spicy meats and even a vegetarian spicy bean burger. If you’re feeling bold, a lighter Malbec could even go well with tuna steak or salmon (opt for medium bodied and fruit-driven for this so you don’t overpower the more delicate flavours of the fish).
