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Malbec is Argentina's signature red and one of the best value propositions in wine: deep purple, plush, full of black plum and violet, and almost always ready to drink. Buy Malbec online at Whisky Wine Sake, from everyday Mendoza bottlings to high-altitude Uco Valley wines with real structure.
A French grape that found its home
Malbec began in south-west France, where it is still grown around Cahors to make a dark, firm, rustic red. It was one of the permitted Bordeaux varieties too, but frost and disease pushed it to the margins there. Transplanted to Argentina in the mid-1800s, it found exactly the conditions it wanted: high altitude, intense sunlight, dry air and cool nights. The result is softer and riper than its French ancestor, with the colour and plushness intact.
Altitude is the thing to look for
In Mendoza, height above sea level matters more than almost anything else. Vineyards around Luján de Cuyo at 900 to 1,100 metres give rich, rounded, generous Malbec. Climb into the Uco Valley, at 1,200 metres and above, and the wines tighten up: more floral lift, firmer acidity, finer tannin and greater capacity to age. Argentinian labels usually tell you the region, and it is worth reading.
Drinking Malbec
Malbec and grilled red meat is one of the great pairings, which is no accident in a country built on asado. It also works with empanadas, blue cheese, mushroom dishes and anything smoky off the barbecue. Serve at 16 to 18°C. Most Malbec drinks beautifully on release; the top Uco Valley wines will improve for eight to ten years. Browse our full Argentinian range, explore South American wine, or see all red wine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Malbec taste like?
Black plum, blackberry and violet, with a soft, velvety texture and gentle tannin. Oak-aged examples add vanilla, mocha and sweet spice.
Is Malbec a dry wine?
Yes. Malbec is a dry red. Its ripe dark fruit and soft tannins can read as sweetness, but there is little to no residual sugar.
What food goes with Malbec?
Grilled and barbecued beef first, then lamb, chorizo, empanadas, blue cheese and roasted mushrooms.
Argentinian or French Malbec?
Argentinian Malbec is riper, softer and fruit-driven. French Malbec from Cahors is darker, firmer and more savoury, with noticeably more tannin.
Do you deliver Malbec across Australia?
Yes, fast and secure delivery Australia-wide, free shipping on NSW orders over $150, and click and collect from our Enmore Road store in Sydney.