
Malbec
Learn about Malbec — taste profile, popular regions and more ...
Known for its big, bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec is most famous for its runaway success in Argentina. However, the variety actually originated in Bordeaux, where it historically contributed color and tannin to blends. After being nearly wiped out by a devastating frost in 1956, it was never significantly replanted, although it continued to flourish under the name Côt in nearby Cahors. A French agronomist who saw great potential for the variety in Mendoza’s hot, high-altitude landscape, brought Malbec to Argentina in 1868. But it did not gain its current reputation as the country's national grape until a surge in popularity in the late 20th century.
Tasting Notes for Malbec
Malbec is a dry, red wine that typically expresses deep flavors of blackberry, plum and licorice, backed by aromas of freshly turned earth and dense, chewy tannins. In warmer, New World regions, such as Mendoza, Malbec wine will be intensely ripe, and full of fruit and spice. From its homeland in Cahors, its rusticity shines; dusty notes and a beguiling bouquet of violets balance rich, black fruit.
Perfect Food Parings for Malbec
Malbec’s rustic character begs for flavorful dishes, like spicy grilled sausages or the classic cassoulet of France’s Southwest. South American iterations are best enjoyed as they would be in Argentina: with a thick, juicy steak.
Sommelier Secrets for Malbec
If you’re trying to please a crowd, Malbec is generally a safe bet. With its combination of bold flavors and soft tannins, it will appeal to basically anyone who enjoys red wine. Malbec also wins bonus points for affordability, as even the most inexpensive examples are often quite good.
- Bordeaux Red Blends88
- Pinot Noir69
- Cabernet Sauvignon56
- Rhône Blends33
- Nebbiolo28
- Other Red Blends26
- Tempranillo23
- Syrah/Shiraz15
- Sangiovese13
- Malbec12
- Cabernet Franc6
- Grenache6
- Merlot5
- Tuscan Blends5
- Barbera2
- Cinsault2
- Montepulciano2
- Nero d'Avola2
- Other Red Wine2
- Aglianico1
- Bonarda1
- Carignan1
- Carmenere1
- Dolcetto1
- Mencia1
- Nerello Mascalese1
- James Suckling18
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate12
- Wine Spectator5
- Wine & Spirits4
- Wine Enthusiast4
- Wilfred Wong of Wine.com3
- Decanter3
- Tim Atkin2
- Jeb Dunnuck2
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Catena Malbec 2018Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
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Zuccardi Q Malbec 2018Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- W&S
- RP
- D
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Catena Alta Malbec 2016Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- WW
- JS
- JD
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Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- JS
- WS
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El Enemigo Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- JS
- W&S
- WS
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Catena Malbec (375ML half-bottle) 2018Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
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Catena Appellation La Consulta Malbec 2018Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- W&S
- RP
- WS
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Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Zuccardi Finca Piedra Infinita Altamira 2015Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- JS
- D
- TA
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Catena Appellation Lunlunta Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
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Zolo Black Malbec 2013Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Zuccardi Aluvional Altamira Malbec 2014Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- WE