Malbec is a hardy red grape variety with origins in southwestern France. Once widely planted, it fell out of favour after phylloxera devastated French vineyards in the 19th century. As fate would have it, Malbec found a new home in Argentina. Favourable growing conditions allowed the variety to thrive, and Argentina is now recognised as the spiritual home of Malbec, accounting for nearly 75% of global production. This article explores the unique characteristics of Argentinian Malbec, analyses the diverse terroir, suggests quintessential food pairings, and ponders the future of this phoenix grape.
The Rise of the Phoenix Grape
Malbec struggled to regain its former glory in its native Cahors region. The stubborn grape variety migrated across the Atlantic in the 1850s, where it found ideal conditions to spread its wings in the foothills of the Andes mountains. Pioneering winemakers like Nicolás Catena recognised the potential of the variety, planting the first Malbec vineyards at high altitudes in Mendoza. Cooler temperatures allow Malbec to achieve balance and finesse to complement its naturally bold flavours. “I knew Malbec had found its true spiritual home here,” Catena once proclaimed.
Characteristics of Argentinian Malbec
With its deep red hue and intense aromas of black plums and blackberry fruit, Malbec packs a punch. Lifted notes of violet and subtle hints of tobacco leaf and dark chocolate tantalise the senses. On the palate, flavours of juicy dark fruit give way to lingering spice and velvety smooth tannins. Compared to its French cousin Cahors, Argentinian Malbec tends to be richer and riper in style, with voluptuous dark fruit notes taking centre stage ahead of gripping tannins.
Exploring the Diverse Terroir
Argentina has carved out a niche as the Malbec capital of the world. Four key regions produce diverse styles: Mendoza crafts Malbec’s in an archetypal, smooth and velvety style. In contrast, the extreme altitude slopes of the Uco Valley yield Malbecs with lighter frames but energetic acidity and floral notes. Up north, higher sunlight intensity lends notes of wild herbs and spices to the Malbec grape in Salta. Finally, Patagonia’s cooler climes produce lighter bodied, fruit forward Malbecs.
Pairing Paradise
The richness of Argentinian Malbec calls for intense flavours that can stand shoulder-to-shoulder. Sink your teeth into a juicy 28-day dry-aged Hereford sirloin steak paired with a bold, complex single vineyard Malbec from Luján de Cuyo. For a true taste of Argentina, Malbec served alongside chorizo sausages and chimichurri sauce at an Asado is tough to top. The regional pride between beef and Malbec is not lost on Argentinians! Complex hard cheeses also pair delightfully, with the saltiness acting as a counterpoint to Malbec’s ripe fruit character.
The Future of Argentinian Malbec
As the old adage goes “keep on doing what you do best”. Premium Malbec wines have gained a global following, with rising consumer thirst across both emerging and mature markets like the UK. However, Argentinian producers cannot rest on their laurels. Astute terroir selection, pioneering irrigation techniques to combat drought and a watchful eye on market trends will be key to ensuring Malbec retains its eminent status on the world stage. Watch this space.
Final Thoughts
The Malbec renaissance is in full flow. Seek out Argentinian Malbec’s to taste the variety in all its glory. Combining full flavour with soft approachability, a bottle of Malbec makes a cracking alternative to Bordeaux and good value for money. Plan a pilgrimage to Argentina and experience the diverse Malbec terroirs first-hand alongside a sizzling Argentinian asado. Salud!