Malbec: World emblem of Argentine red wine

With a cultivated area of more than 44,400 hectares, representing almost 23% of Argentina's cultivated area, Malbec is the flagship variety of Argentine red wines and the one that best represents the local palate. Since 2011 it is the most cultivated grape variety in the country, and has positioned itself as the leader in volume, quality and exports worldwide. 

Malbec has its origins in the southwest of France. There, this grape variety was cultivated and used to produce wines called "de Cahors" after the name of the region, recognised since the times of the Roman Empire. These wines were consolidated in the Middle Ages and strengthened in modern times. This grape variety was brought to Argentina in 1853 by the Frenchman Michel Aimé Pouget (1821-1875).

Noted for its intense dark colour and fruity explosion, Malbec offers a wide range of aromatic profiles associated with the specific conditions of the terroir. In general, its aromas are reminiscent of cherries, strawberries or plums, sultanas and black pepper in some cases with hints of cooked fruit (jam). Aged in wood, it acquires notes of coffee, vanilla and chocolate. In the mouth it has the capacity to fill the palate thanks to its sweet, silky and enveloping tannins.

It was thanks to the drive of the Argentinean wine industry that Malbec revealed its true potential: its versatility, elegance and opulence, becoming the focus of the most daring innovations over the last twenty years.

Argentina has a Controlled Denomination of Origin (DOC) for Malbec in some regions, which protects the name of the area and obliges producers to maintain a high level of quality in their wines. Malbec Luján de Cuyo is the first Denomination of Origin (DOC) in America. Besides Malbec Argentino from Mendoza, you can find Malbec Argentino from Salta or Malbec Argentino from Patagonia.

Malbec is also the perfect backbone for blends/cuvees, as its structure and versatility make it a perfect match for blends such as Bonarda, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Merlot, among others. 

Malbec has achieved such international recognition that there is a Malbec World Day, which is celebrated on 17 April. The date commemorates 17 April 1853, the day on which the project to found the first Agricultural School in Argentina was presented. This event was not only the symbol of the transformation of Argentine viticulture, but also the starting point for the development of this grape variety, the emblem of this country worldwide.

Source: winesofargentina.org

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