MALBEC
Quick overview
Malbec is a red grape variety that tastes of black fruits (blackberry, plum) and generally has high levels of tannins.
On the grapevine...
Malbec grapes are very sensitive to growing environments. The level of ripeness has a considerable effect on the structure of the final wine.
Overall Argentinian Malbecs tend to be rich and jammy and French Malbecs tend to be more meaty and tannic. Ageing in oak helps enhance the wine’s structure and ageing potential.
More about the grape...
Malbec grows well in high, dry climates and Argentina's highest vineyards are 10,000 ft above sea level in the Salta province, which has a similar soil profile to Mendoza where a huge amount of Argentinian Malbec is produced. These vinyards are also typically planted with the nation’s iconic white wine variety Torrentes as well as Malbec.
Random information...
Malbec is native to South-Western France (specifically Cahors), but now better known as the iconic grape of Argentina.
Malbec has shot to fame in just a few decades and at the same time helped put Argentina on the map as a wine-producing nation.
Safe bet countries/ regions (this is a VERY general guide)
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Mendoza – Argentina
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Cahors – France