Everything About Malbec Grape
"mal-BEHK" 
Malbec Description
Origin: Southwest France
History: Malbec, also known as Côt or Auxerrois in France, is a purple grape variety that originated in the southwest of France. It was traditionally used as one of the six grapes allowed in the blend of red Bordeaux wine. In the mid-20th century, Malbec's prominence in France declined due to its susceptibility to frost and disease. However, the grape found a new home in Argentina, where it thrived in the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza. Today, Argentina is the largest producer of Malbec, and the grape has become synonymous with Argentine wine.
Appearance: Small to medium-sized, dark purple berries with thick skins.
Growing Traits: Malbec vines are vigorous and can produce high yields. The grape thrives in sunny climates and high altitudes, which help it develop its deep color, robust tannins, and signature flavors. However, it is susceptible to frost and fungal diseases, requiring careful vineyard management.
Food Pairing Malbec's full body and rich fruit flavors make it an excellent match for grilled meats, particularly beef, lamb, and game. It also pairs well with dishes featuring bold spices, such as barbecue or Mexican cuisine. For cheese pairings, consider blue cheeses or aged cheddars.
Body
Sweetness
Tannin
Acidity
Alcohol
Full-bodied with a rich and robust structure, offering depth and intensity. Typically dry, highlighting its dark fruit character. Moderate to high tannin levels, contributing to a firm and slightly astringent mouthfeel. Medium acidity, providing balance and freshness to the wine. Moderate to high alcohol content, generally around 13-15%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Blackberry 
Plum 
Black cherry 
Violet 
Chocolate Malbec wines are characterized by dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, often accompanied by floral notes of violet and hints of chocolate. The wines typically have a velvety texture with moderate to high tannins and a smooth finish.
Regions
![[object Object] Region](/regions/argentina.png)
Argentina
•Mendoza
•Salta
•Patagonia
![[object Object] Region](/regions/france.png)
France
•Cahors
•Loire Valley
![[object Object] Region](/regions/united_states.png)
United States
•California
•Washington
Notable Wines and Producers
Catena Zapata Malbec Argentino
•Bodega Catena Zapata
Achaval Ferrer Finca Altamira Malbec
•Achaval Ferrer
Cahors Château du Cèdre
•Château du Cèdre
Malbec FAQ
Southwest France
Malbec has a body level of 4 out of 5. Which means that Malbec is Moderate to Full bodied.
Malbec has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Malbec is Dry.
Southwest France
Malbec is grown in Argentina (Mendoza, Salta, Patagonia)France (Cahors, Loire Valley)United States (California, Washington).
Malbec wines are characterized by dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, often accompanied by floral notes of violet and hints of chocolate. The wines typically have a velvety texture with moderate to high tannins and a smooth finish.
Malbec's full body and rich fruit flavors make it an excellent match for grilled meats, particularly beef, lamb, and game. It also pairs well with dishes featuring bold spices, such as barbecue or Mexican cuisine. For cheese pairings, consider blue cheeses or aged cheddars.
Malbec wines are characterized by dark fruit flavors, such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, often accompanied by floral notes of violet and hints of chocolate. The wines typically have a velvety texture with moderate to high tannins and a smooth finish.