
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.
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Belasco de Baquedano AR Guentota Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- TP
- JS
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Casarena Lauren's Vineyard Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- WS
- JS
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Pulenta Gran Malbec X 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- WW
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BenMarco Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Tapiz Alta Collection Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
- RP
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CARO Aruma Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
- RP
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Susana Balbo Signature Malbec 2011Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- D
- WS
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Bodegas Renacer Punto Final Malbec Reserva 2011Malbec from Argentina
- WE
- WS
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Casarena Reservado Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- WS
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Bodega DiamAndes Uco Malbec 2011Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- WS
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Don Rodolfo Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- W&S
- JS
- WS
- WE
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Zolo Black Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- WE
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Nieto Senetiner Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Dona Paula Malbec Seleccion de Bodega 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- WE
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Altocedro Ano Cero Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Achaval-Ferrer Mendoza Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Catena Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
- WS
- RP
- D
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Domaine de Cause Cahors La Lande Cavagnac Malbec 2011Malbec from Cahors, Southwest, France
- WE
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Achaval-Ferrer Finca Bella Vista Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- WS
- RP
- WW
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Graffito Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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L10 by Valentin Bianchi Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Achaval-Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec 2011Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- WW
- WS
- RP
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Piattelli Premium Reserve Malbec 2011Malbec from Argentina
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Chateau du Cedre Cahors Le Cedre 2011Malbec from Cahors, Southwest, France
- WE
- W&S
- WS