Malbec is loved the world over. It is like a generous wine friend that hits that lush middle palate with a flourish. You will often see a wine lover’s mouth shape into a smile on first sip and that is no coincidence. It has the type of tannins that are on the shapely side and as they glide over your palate, it is all too easy to remember why you drink Malbec.
At home in France with Malbec
Controversially, some may say that it is more elegant than its Bordeaux sibling Merlot. However, it is also capable of reminding us that it has a rustic charm as well. Particularly in the South West French region of Cahors.
Malbec is sadly now a less used grape in Bordeaux. However, it used to sit happily alongside Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. There is a rumour that it is a red grape with Burgundian origins though. Unquestionably though, it is a grape that winegrowers of Argentinia embrace with a passion. And why not, with that vibrant purple hue, the grape is about as bold as it gets. It is an easy red wine to love.
In the case of Malbec, it is also a great blender. Especially with any other of Bordeaux five which also includes, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. However, in France where this grape takes the limelight is in the South West. In regions such as Cahors. There it might also be known as ‘Cot’. Indeed there it can produce savoury, leathery wines that are good cellaring candidates.
Malbec – An international traveller
It goes without saying though, that internationally Malbec has come into its own is in Argentina. Particularly thrives in high altitude vineyards in Mendoza and in the highest altitudes of the region of Salta. There are many straight Malbec wines produced in Argentina. Or as you might expect, winemakers may also be blend it with another of Argentina’s specialities, Bonarda.
Other countries are also producing expressive versions of this grape and why not. It does well in many regions, including USA and Australia. In both these countries, the grape has long histories and is widely grown in both countries. Also look for Malbecs from Chile.
What should you expect?
A red wine made from Malbec should be medium to full bodied, and generally will have a degree of elegance to the fruit. It will be a fruity wine and good winemakers will be careful with their oak maturation so that fruit shines. And expect cherries, plum, raspberry, or deeper blackberry, cocoa and even some black pepper.
What regions to look for?
The enjoy 100% Malbec wines look for red wines from:
- Cahors, France
- Mendoza, Argentina
- Salta, Argentina
- McLaren Vale, Australia
- Langhorne Creek, Australia
You could even try one of the new breeds of Super Tuscans where you might be surprised to find a Malbec from Tuscany!
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