MALBEC
Dark Fruit, Soft Spice, And High-Altitude Power
Malbec is a rich, dark-skinned grape that produces deeply colored, fruit-forward red wines with velvety texture and spice. Originally from France, it found its true home in Argentina, where high-elevation vineyards in Mendoza create bold, juicy wines that are approachable yet age-worthy. Known for its generous flavor and plush tannins, Malbec is a global favorite for bold red wine lovers.
Key Characteristics
Malbec is medium to full-bodied with deep color, soft tannins, and ripe fruit. It often shows a balance of richness and freshness thanks to its natural acidity—especially at higher altitudes.
Style
Still, red
Body
Medium to full
Acidity
Medium
Primary Grapes
Malbec
Typical Flavors
Blackberry, plum, violet, cocoa, tobacco, black pepper
Origin & History
Malbec originated in southwest France, where it was historically one of the grapes in Bordeaux blends and the main variety in Cahors. However, it was in Argentina—particularly Mendoza—that Malbec flourished. The country’s high-altitude vineyards, intense sunlight, and dry climate produced riper, softer, more expressive versions that won over global wine drinkers.
How It’s Made
Malbec is typically fermented in stainless steel or concrete to preserve fruit, with many versions aged in French or American oak for added complexity. Winemakers often use gentle extraction to highlight Malbec’s plush texture while preserving freshness and balance.
Notable Regions
Though its roots are in France, Malbec's most celebrated and widely available expressions now come from Argentina.
Argentina
Mendoza & Uco Valley
Lush, floral, high-altitude Malbec with ripe fruit and a smooth, modern finish
France
Cahors (Southwest)
More rustic and tannic, with earthy and savory depth
United States
California & Washington
Richer, darker styles with jammy fruit and soft tannins
Chile
Colchagua & Maipo Valleys
Balanced, savory styles with black fruit and fresh acidity
Food Pairings
Malbec’s bold fruit and smooth tannins make it an ideal match for hearty fare and grilled meats.
Appetizers
Beef empanadas, roasted red peppers, chorizo
Meats
Grilled steak, short ribs, lamb burgers
Cheeses
Provolone, smoked Gouda, blue cheese
Vegetarian
Black bean chili, portobello burgers, lentil and mushroom stew
How to Serve It
Glassware
Standard or large red wine glass to showcase aromas and texture
Temperature
60–65°F (16–18°C)
Storage
Store on its side in a cool, dark place; most bottles are best within 5–7 years, though top cuvées can age longer
Fun Fact
Some vineyards in Argentina sit at elevations above 5,000 feet, where cool nights help preserve Malbec’s signature balance of ripeness and acidity.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of Malbec across both its Old World roots and New World evolution.
Bodega Catena Zapata
A pioneering force in Argentine viticulture, crafting high-altitude Malbecs with elegance, depth, and global acclaim.
Catena
The broader label of the Catena family, known for expressive, terroir-driven Malbecs that highlight Mendoza’s mountain character.
Clos La Coutale
A benchmark Cahors estate producing traditional, earthy Malbecs that reflect the variety’s French origins.
Fabre Montmayou
A French-Argentine project delivering rich, oak-aged Malbecs that marry Bordeaux finesse with Mendoza intensity.
Recommended Pours
Bodega Catena Zapata - La Consulta 2021 — A refined single-vineyard Malbec with vibrant red fruit, floral lift, and a mineral backbone from high-altitude terroir.
Catena - Malbec High Mountain 2022 — A bright and structured Malbec offering dark berry flavors, fresh acidity, and notes of violet and spice.
Clos La Coutale - Cahors 2021 — A classic Cahors Malbec blending rustic charm with dark fruit, earthy depth, and firm tannins.
Fabre Montmayou - Malbec Gran Reserva 2021 — A rich and polished Argentine Malbec with concentrated black fruit, toasty oak, and a long, velvety finish.