International Malbec Day – 17 April
- Apr 17, 2018
- 2 min read
Malbec
Pronounced “Mal-bek”
Malbec grape originated in South West France, but Argentina, especially the Mendoza region, is seen as the grape’s saviour and grows by far the most Malbec in the world. French viticulturists brought the Malbec vine to Argentina around 1850 in hopes of finding a suitable climate of hot and dry growing regions. The main reason for Malbec’s failure to rise in stature in France was its susceptibility to disease and rot.
Since the mid-1990’s, the popularity of the Malbec has exploded. The crops have grown over 700% in the past two decades. In France, Malbec is often more rustic and tannic, which is why in most of France, it is only used as a blending grape and mostly used in Bordeaux blends as a small percentage.
It is a dark coloured, thin skinned grape. Malbec is a deep purple-red that is nearly opaque, however, it will often have a bright magenta rim. It is almost always a full-bodied wine and has an easy-drinking profile. Argentinian Malbec has smaller berries and smaller bunches than French Malbec, leading to richer, deeper, more concentrated flavours.
When ripe, it adds colour, tannin and spicy characteristics to the wine. It produces deep coloured, rich wines with freshness, balances acidity and lush, round, supple textures and flavours of plum and blackberry.
Flavours & aromas: Aromas and flavours include black cherries, raspberry, plum, blackberry and blueberry, chocolate, cocoa, coffee, violets, leather, black pepper and if oaked, vanilla and coconut.
Food & wine: Malbec is a food friendly wine, which is easy to pair and match with most foods. Malbec pairs well with beef, veal, chicken, pork, sausage, stewed dishes, cured meats and dry cheeses, chocolate, roasted vegetables, onions and mushrooms.
Serving temperature & ageing potential: With medium acidity and tannins, it’s not a hugely age worthy wine, but will keep 5-6 years. The ideal serving temperature for Malbec is 17˚C - 18˚C.
Fun fact:
Malbec is also planted in Chile, United States, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa and Canada.
Malbec is often called “the working man’s Merlot”.
Malbec is also used in rosè and sparkling wines.
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