
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.
- Pinot Noir95
- Cabernet Sauvignon46
- Other Red Blends37
- Malbec24
- Zinfandel12
- Rhône Blends11
- Gamay11
- Syrah/Shiraz10
- Merlot10
- Sangiovese9
- Tempranillo8
- Bordeaux Red Blends6
- Grenache6
- Barbera4
- Other Red Wine4
- Cabernet Franc3
- Carmenere3
- Cinsault2
- Dolcetto2
- Montepulciano2
- Nebbiolo2
- Nero d'Avola2
- Primitivo2
- Tuscan Blends2
- Bonarda1
- Lagrein1
- Mourvedre1
- Negroamaro1
- Petite Sirah1
- Pinotage1
- Agiorgitiko1
- Pais1
- Schiava1
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Alamos Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Santa Julia Reserva Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Zuccardi Q Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
- WS
- W&S
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Zuccardi Concreto Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Domaine Bousquet Premium Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- WS
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Vina Cobos Felino Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Etchart Cafayate Malbec 2019Malbec from Cafayate Valley, Salta, Argentina
- JS
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Zuccardi Serie A Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Nieto Senetiner Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Red Rock Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Pulenta La Flor Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Agua de Piedra Seleccion Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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High Note Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Tilia Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Salentein Reserve Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
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Agua de Piedra Gran Seleccion Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Zorzal Terroir Unico Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- JS
- RP
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Matias Riccitelli Wines Hey Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Altos las Hormigas Clasico Malbec 2019Malbec from Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina
- RP
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Don Rodolfo Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
- WW
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Fabre Montmayou Reserva Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Tercos Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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Septima Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina
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RJ Vinedos MDZ Malbec 2019Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina