The Beginner’s Guide to Malbec Wine

Red wine enthusiasts are no stranger to the rich flavours, versatility, and vibrant history of Malbec wine. It’s time to deepen your appreciation for this French-hailing wine by going through this basic guide. Explore everything you need to know about the iconic Malbec here!

What is Malbec wine?

Malbec wine is a type of red wine that originated in France. It’s made of Malbec grapes and is bold and full-bodied in flavour.

Despite starting out in France, Malbec has found a new home in Argentina, where the grapes have thrived in the country’s high-altitude vineyards.

A brief history of Malbec wine

Malbec found its start in the south-west of France. In this region, Malbec grapes were traditionally blended with other grape varieties in regions like Bordeaux. However, the Malbec grapes started catching diseases and frost from the cold climate, and it eventually declined in France.

In the mid-19th century, Malbec vines were brought to Argentina. Here, the climate was dry, and the high altitudes of the Andes allowed the grapes to flourish. Since then, Argentina has become the world’s largest producer of Malbec wine, with Mendoza being the most popular wine region.

Malbec wine in other parts of the world

While it is agreed upon that Argentina is the elite region for Malbec, this wine is also produced in other parts of the world. The differing terroirs in each region offer a unique take on the versatile Malbec grape.

In France, Malbec is often grown in Cahors. This Malbec wine tends to be earthier and heavier in tannins than the Argentinian versions. You can also find Malbec wine from regions such as California, Chile, and Australia, each adding its own terroir-driven twist.

What does Malbec taste like?

Malbec wine is the perfect match for fans of fruity, robust wines. This wine contains deep, dark fruit flavours such as plum, blackberry, and black cherry. Some distinct notes in Malbec include vanilla, cocoa, and a hint of smokiness.

For those who don’t particularly enjoy wine tannins, Malbec is a good choice because its tannins are usually smooth. Beginner wine drinkers will appreciate the wine’s flavours as well as mouth feel as it is more approachable and palatable than other red wines.

How to serve Malbec wine

Malbec thrives in temperatures between 15–18°C. This temperature range highlights the wine’s fruit notes.

To enhance more of the wine’s flavours, especially if you have an aged bottle, decant Malbec for about 30 minutes before serving. As far as glassware goes, use a large-bowled glass so that the wine can properly breathe and fully express its aromatic profile.

Tips for buying Malbec

You’ll do no wrong when you purchase a bottle of Malbec from Mendoza, as it gives you the classic Argentinian Malbec experience. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can check out wines from Cahors in France, often labeled as “Côt” or “Auxerrois.” The vintage of the wine can also tell you what to expect from the bottle. Malbec from drier, sunnier years will have riper fruit flavours.

When in doubt, ask for recommendations from liquor store. Check out the varieties of Malbec at your nearest Red & White shop today!