Argentina may be famous for its production of Malbec, however, this grape varietal’s origins trace back to the Cahors region in southwestern France dating back to the 1300s. In this informative wine guide, we will be introducing wine lovers to the iconic Malbec grape.
History of the Malbec Grape
Although this red grape varietal is largely associated with Argentina today, its history has deep European origins. It is believed that Malbec was first discovered in the Cahors region of France during the 16th century. Originally known as Auxerrois or Côt, this grapevine was brought to the Medoc region by Sieur Malbec where it was renamed and earned its fame as one of the five main Bordeaux grape varieties.
During the 19th century, Malbec was brought overseas to South America by Michel Pouget where it flourished in the Mendoza region of Argentina. While the Argentine wine industry was unsure if the grape would produce a tasty and popular wine, luckily, this varietal soon became Argentina’s crown jewel.
While production of Malbec is highest in Argentina, French Malbec still holds its own on the global wine market. Below, we’ll delve deeper into the difference between each of the Malbec wine expressions and the grape itself.
The Popularity of Malbec Red Wine
Malbec’s popularity has changed over time. Originally, it was popular in the Right Bank of Bordeaux particularly Saint Emillion with it reaching its height of popularity during the 1855 Classification. However, after numerous unfortunate natural disasters including phylloxera and the severe frost of 1956, fewer winemakers used these grapes and to this day its popularity continues to dwindle.
While Malbec diminished in demand in France, its popularity across Argentina was going exponentially. Malbec is considered one of the most popular red wines in the North America and continues to be the star grape of Argentina.
Malbec Grown in Southwest France Compared to Argentina
As we mentioned above, French Malbec and Argentinian Malbec both have their own distinctive qualities and styles. Many would consider the French expression to be higher in tannins and more rustic than that of a Mendoza Malbec. Let’s explore what these differences are below.
Growing Regions: Difference in Climates, Soils and Styles
Malbec is known for showing the terroir it was grown in better than other grape varieties. Similar to Merlot, this red grape can be very sensitive meaning it can be highly impacted by changes in its environment. Therefore, the climate and the soils in which this grape grows can also play a significant role in the differences between expressions.
In France, the Cahors region is known for its limestone-rich soils and its moderate climate. Here, Malbec grapevines are often found in plateaus or modest hillsides. The soil content gives French Malbec its iconic high tannic structure and acid backbone leading to intense notes blackberry, smoke and coffee.
Mendoza, on the other hand, has a warm climate all year round. The conditions in Argentina are much sunnier and drier than those in France. The clay and alluvial soils encourage the vines to grow deep roots in search of nutrients.
Grown either in plains, foothills and the best grapes on the slopes at high elevation of the Andes, Mendoza’s terroir gives Argentinan Malbec a riper and smoother nature with rounder tannins and notes of juicy red and black fruit along with floral notes such as violet.
Malbec: Characteristics and Tasting Notes
The characteristics of Malbec will change slightly from region to region. However, there are a few common characteristics that are worthy of note.
This red wine is known for its inky purple colour, round texture, and for being full-bodied. Its acidity and tannin levels range from medium to high depending on its origins. Malbec wine is known for producing a wine that is dry in style but full of robust flavours that a good Mablec will fill the mouth and linger on the palate.
Argentine Malbec is known for being more fruit-forward than that of the earthier French Malbec, however, both expressions have similarities such as:
- Blueberry
- Black cherry
- Bramble
- Violet
- Vanilla
- Tobacco
- Dark chocolate
- Smoke
- Leather
The combination of these approachable and likable characteristics has led this red wine to become very popular amongst wine enthusiasts across North America. While other red wines such as Merlot or Cabernet Franc favoured more heavily in Europe for growing purposes, Malbec truly holds a place as one of the most intriguing wines on the international market.
Best Malbec Wine to Try: Septima Malbec 2019
The Septima Malbec 2019 is a beautiful example of the Argentinian expression of Malbec wine. Grown in the Mendoza region at high elevation on the slopes of the Andes and hand-picked, this wine offers a deep ruby, a purple rip in the glass after pouring.
With soft, rounded and full tannins this wine offers wine enthusiasts an insight into what Argentina’s hot climate can do to Malbec and produces delicious jammy notes of blackberry, plum, cherry, and violets. Finishing on a refreshing and fruit-forward note, this red wine is ideal for pairing with grilled red meats or tomato based dishes.