The robust, deep red Malbec wine has become hugely popular with wine lovers in the UK and all over the world due to its unique flavor profile. Due to its sun-loving nature, the malbec grape is widely grown in Argentina where it's then used to produce brilliantly luxurious, tannic reds that are bursting with the flavor of blackberry, plum and dark cherry. Malbec wine has become synonymous with South American viniculture. Despite the Argentinian dominance, the homeland of this grape—France, still produces some excellent examples of this wine variety. In this article we will look at some of the best Malbec red wines, so if you're a wine lover looking to discover your next favourite red, continue reading below.
When selecting the best Malbec red wine, there are a few different factors to consider. Those include:
- Country
- The best Malbec reds are made from single source, 100% malbec grape.
- Color
- Malbec red wines are considerably darker than most wines. A good Malbec wine should have a deep dark red color with hints of violet. The violet undertones are a telltale sign of an exquisite Malbec red.
- Flavor
- Flavor is usually a subjective part of wine selection as different people prefer different tastes. Malbec is known for its quite unique flavor profile and fine balance between bitterness and sweetness.
- Alcohol Content
- The average alcohol content for Malbec is typically around 14% which is an indicator for a superb and strong wine.
A question many wine enthusiasts ask themselves is which country produces the best Malbec reds? The first association that springs to mind for many is Argentina as the climate, soil and elevation are perfect for growing this grape variety and making the finest Malbec wines. France is not far behind as one of the world's largest wine producers and another country with exquisite Malbec. Some great examples of this wine variety can also be found in Australia and South Africa.
A few choices for Malbec red wines from various wine regions include:
- 2020 Malbec, Vicuna, Central Valley
- This exemplary Malbec from the Central Valley region in Chile is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to try this bold red. This intense and juicy wine amazes with a fresh bouquet of fruity flavors like blackberry and plum, and sweet hints of vanilla. The silky smooth tannins leave a lasting taste in your mouth.
- 2015 Chateau Tour Bayard 'L'Angelot', Montagne-Saint-Emilion
- If you're someone that appreciates a fine French wine, then you will love this Malbec produced from grapes grown in the Bordeaux region. This big and expressive red features a rich palate with peppery, spicy notes, while maintaining the elegance of a fine red.<
- 2016 Vineyard Selection Malbec, Casa de Uco, Uco Valley
- Argentinian Malbec wines are some of the world's most renowned red wines. With its big, fruity profile that features notes of red and black berry fruits and intense spice, this beautiful deep red Malbec comes straight from the foothills of the Andes. This vineyard selection wine is a great example of this wine region and a fantastic red that every wine lover would appreciate.
- 2016 El Salvaje Malbec, Casa de Uco, Uco Valley
- Produced in the malbec capital of Argentina, Uco Valley, this outstanding red wine has depth and flavor few wines can compare with. The aromatic profile of this impressive red includes prominent notes of ripe fruits, peppery spice and gentle hints of florals and oak. With its deep crimson color and lively freshness this is a perfect example of Argentinian Malbec that every wine lover would enjoy.
- 2017 The Winemaker's Blend, Casa de Uco, Uco Valley
- The layered aromas of dark cherry, cracked black pepper, spice and warm oak notes make sipping this red Malbec wine a truly exquisite experience. Although this particular wine is not 100% malbec grapes and is blended with merlot, cabernet franc and petit verdot, it still carries the same intense flavor profile as Malbec varietals. With a notable purity and freshness, which is a rarity in bold South American wines, this red is rounded and ripe yet not too heavy. Perfectly balanced as all good wines should be.