malbec

Malbec originates from France and is also known as Cot, “the black wine”, in the most important appellation of Cahors. It used to be a main component of a Bordeaux blend, but has been replaced there by more durable and also more fashionable grapes, not least because of its susceptibility to frost.

This grape variety came to Argentina in the middle of the 19th century. It is widely grown there and produces deeply coloured wines with generous black fruit characteristics, balanced acidity and soft tannins. In the Mendoza region in particular, Malbec has earned an immortal name. In Argentina, Malbec is bottled pure or as part of a Bordeaux blend. In Chile, it is the third most widely grown international grape variety after Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. There, it tends to produce firmer, more tannic wines than its Argentine neighbours. In Chile, it is often blended with Merlot and Petit Verdot. Malbec is also playing an increasing role as a blending partner in wines from New Zealand and Australia.