
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.
- Cabernet Sauvignon165
- Pinot Noir152
- Other Red Blends71
- Bordeaux Red Blends55
- Syrah/Shiraz38
- Rhône Blends30
- Merlot29
- Sangiovese18
- Malbec17
- Tempranillo16
- Zinfandel16
- Nebbiolo13
- Tuscan Blends9
- Cabernet Franc8
- Grenache8
- Nero d'Avola5
- Barbera4
- Carignan2
- Mourvedre2
- Other Red Wine2
- Nerello Mascalese2
- Aglianico1
- Carmenere1
- Gamay1
- Lagrein1
- Montepulciano1
- Petite Sirah1
- Pinotage1
- Primitivo1
- Mencia1
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BenMarco Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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El Enemigo Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- JS
- W&S
- WS
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Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard River Stones Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- D
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A16 Punto Ar Nuit 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Verum Malbec 2017Malbec from Patagonia, Argentina
- WE
- TA
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Bodega DiamAndes Perlita Malbec-Syrah 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Clos La Coutale Cahors 2017Malbec from Cahors, Southwest, France
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Altocedro Reserva Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- D
- RP
- JS
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Recuerdo Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Valle de la Puerta Ichanka Malbec 2017Malbec from La Rioja, Argentina
- JS
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Fabre Montmayou Gran Reserva Malbec 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Bodega Atamisque Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
- JS
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Bodegas Renacer Punto Final Malbec Reserva 2017Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Vina Cobos Bramare Uco Valley Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
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Titus Malbec 2017Malbec from Napa Valley, California
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Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Mundus Bacillus Terrae Malbec 2017Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP