
Malbec Wine
Learn about Malbec wine — taste profile, popular regions and more ...
Known for its big, bold flavors and supple texture, Malbec wine 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.
Malbec Tasting Notes
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.
Malbec Food Pairing Tips
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 Blends180
- Syrah/Shiraz173
- Sangiovese105
- Cabernet Sauvignon103
- Pinot Noir97
- Rhône Blends77
- Nebbiolo57
- Other Red Blends55
- Tempranillo36
- Malbec30
- Merlot26
- Tuscan Blends17
- Grenache14
- Zinfandel11
- Barbera6
- Cabernet Franc5
- Carmenere5
- Mourvedre5
- Other Red Wine4
- Aglianico3
- Nero d'Avola2
- Petite Sirah2
- Carignan1
- Pinotage1
- Robert Parker's Wine Advocate32
- Wine Spectator30
- Wine & Spirits12
- Wine Enthusiast11
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Ksana Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Durigutti Malbec Reserva 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Bodegas Renacer Punto Final Malbec Reserva 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- W&S
- WS
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Luca Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
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Luca Nico Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
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Catena Zapata Argentino Vineyard Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
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Catena Zapata Nicasia Vineyard Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WE
- WS
- RP
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Amalaya Malbec Blend 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Catena Alta Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
- W&S
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Trumpeter Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
- RP
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Bodega del Desierto Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Alamos Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Kaiken Ultra Las Rocas Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
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Bodega Norton Malbec Reserva 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Catena Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
- RP
- WE
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Rutini Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Altos las Hormigas Reserva Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Bodega Colome Estate Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Altocedro Reserva Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
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Mendel Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- WS
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Mapema Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- W&S
- WS
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Achaval-Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
- RP
- W&S
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Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Malbec 2006Malbec from Argentina
- RP
- W&S
- WS
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Alta Vista Alto 2006Malbec from Argentina
- WS
- RP