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Malbec is a purple grape dating back to the 16th century in the Cahors region of southwestern France. Towards the 1800's it was introduced into the Bordeaux region where it remains popular in their blends to this day.
The grape was transported to Argentina in the 1920's where it steadily gained popularity, although it took until the 1990's for it to became popular when introduced to the world as a single varietal. Today the Mendoza region of Argentina is the world's largest producer of Malbec wine.
When drinking, you should expect a dry, medium to full-bodied wine which has both moderate acidity and tannin levels. Malbec is juicy and jammy, often with a hint of vanilla and is renowned for being a smooth wine.
Argentinian and Chilean versions have a dark fruity nose with blackcurrant and red cherry palate, whereas cooler climates often display blackcurrant and plum flavours, typified by the French style of Malbec.
The Malbec grape variety is often used as a red wine, but it can also be made into white and rosé varieties. Historically, white Malbec was a rarity, though it is now being made in Argentina. Rosé Malbec is more common, but the grape is lauded for its red wine.
Malbec originates from Cahors, France, where it contributes to a dark and tannic red. In Argentina, however, Malbec is believed to be at its peak, especially in the high-altitude vineyards around Mendoza. Argentine red Malbec wine made a big impact in the American and European markets in the early 2000s. Now, higher-end and higher-altitude expressions from the Uco Valley and Gualtallary are garnering greater attention. Malbec is also produced in Chile, Uruguay, California, Australia, and New Zealand.
This wine is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meat to mushrooms and gorgonzola cheese. Even pepperoni pizza goes great with Malbec. The flavours of dark cherries, brambly berries, plums, and spice making it a great choice for these foods.
If the wine has been aged in new oak, there may be nuances of vanilla, chocolate, and coffee. Malbec tannins range from medium to assertive and it has bright acidity. Enjoy the wine at slightly cooler than room temperature from a glass that allows for swirling and oxygenation.
