Malbec is without question Argentina’s flagship grape, and most consumers the world over naturally think of Argentina when they think of Malbec. The soft velvety texture and opulent fruit flavours of Argentine Malbec make it the go-to grape for many wine-lovers. The western province of Mendoza is home to the majority of Argentina's Malbec vineyards and is where most of the world's finest Malbec wines are crafted.
France - Malbec's Homeland
Malbec’s native home is Bordeaux, France, where it was once a very important component in their local wines. Hugh Johnson, in his book “The Story of Wine,” mentions that in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Malbec made up about 60% of the vineyard space in Bordeaux, and that the vineyards of Chateaux Lafite and Latour, two famous first growths, were dominated by the Malbec grape. Malbec’s presence has declined dramatically in Bordeaux where it is now used only in very small quantities by some chateaux, while others don’t use it at all.
Malbec is, however, still the dominant grape in another French wine region - Cahors. Here it is turned into very dark and slightly more rustic wines than those from Argentina. Malbec’s success in Argentina has given the wines of Cahors a surge in popularity, especially those with the name of the grape on the label.
Malbec in Mendoza
In Argentina, specifically the province of Mendoza, Malbec has really blossomed. The grape arrived sometime in the mid 1800s, but it has taken to the vineyards, the soil, and the climate like it’s been there forever. In fact, the grape even looks different than those in France. The bunches are more compact and the berries are smaller, probably the result of grape growers choosing specific clones that proved successful in their vineyards.
Mendoza is located in the far west of Argentina, in the foothills of the magnificent Andes mountain range. Here, most vines grow at very high altitudes, the average height being between 600m and 1,100m above sea level. Rainfall is quite low due to being in the rain-shadow of the Andes, but irrigation water is provided by the rivers that flow down from the snow-capped mountains. The lack of humidity and the drying effects of the Zonda, a strong wind that blows down from the mountains means that rot, mildew, and other diseases are rare. One of the only things to detract from these near perfect growing conditions is the real threat of devastating hailstorms.
Premium Subregions
Mendoza is divided into 5 broad areas: North, Central, East, Uco Valley, and South Mendoza. These regions are then broken down into many subregions – a reflection of the many and varied terroirs in this part of the country. Central Mendoza is one of the most important regions in terms of quality Malbec. Central Mendoza also happens to be home to the majority of Argentina’s most famous wineries. The main subregions here are Lujàn de Cuyo and Maipù. Lujàn de Cuyo has a reputation for some of the finest examples of Malbec in Argentina. They can be powerful, serious wines with aggressive tannins and almost austere acidity.
Maipù is directly east of Lujàn de Cuyo. Its lower altitude makes it the warmest area in Central Mendoza. Malbec from Maipù are pretty with firm tannins and are a bit more approachable than those from Jujàn de Cuyo. Along with very successful Malbec, the Maipù area also produces some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in Argentina.
The Uco Valley, located south of Central Mendoza, is also a very important Malbec region, possessing some of Mendoza’s highest altitude vineyards. Its cooler climate produces Malbecs full of finesse and overflowing with flavours of red fruit and red berries, floral notes, and fine-grained tannins. The Uco Valley has been a region of enormous growth over the last 10 years or so, as winegrowers are recognizing the potential of this unique terroir.
The Effect of Altitude
Malbec reflects the altitude at which it was grown. Higher altitudes provide a cooler climate, enabling the Malbec grape to retain its refreshing acidity, while the sunlight becomes more intense the further up the vineyards are, allowing the grapes to fully ripen. Malbec grown at higher altitudes generally have a deep purple colour and are full-bodied and intense. Flavours of red fruit, black pepper, and spice are common. Middle altitude vineyards produce ruby-coloured wines with flavours of red and black fruit and softer tannins. Malbec from lower altitudes makes wines with aromas and flavours of blueberry, plum, and cherry with soft tannins and good concentration.
Malbec Styles
Most wines undergo some degree of French oak treatment. Lighter styles will receive little and some of the bigger styles have enough stuffing to stand up to generous oak treatment, some spending over a year in 100% new oak barrels.
Malbec can be a single varietal wine, that is 100% Malbec, or it can be added to numerous different red grapes to produce complex and delicious blends. Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah/Shiraz are common partners with Malbec.
Malbec and Food
Malbec is a wine that can be served at the fanciest of dinner parties featuring roast beef or braised lamb, or it can be a wine for more casual occasions. Malbec marries harmoniously with barbecued meat (red meat and even pork), grilled sausage, beef stew, hamburgers, and even pizza.
Sarah Goddard - I love wine. I love reading about it, talking about it, writing about it, and of course, I love drinking it. I am a certified sommelier ...
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