Malbec is a type of grape used for winemaking . As it is a purple grape, red wine is produced with it.
This variety is native to southwestern France . However, currently the nation with the largest Malbec area in the world is Argentina . This is due to the popularity of wine produced in the South American country.
Although Malbec is the strain of the grape, the term is often used in reference to wine made from this fruit. That is why it is common to talk about Malbec in direct reference to the alcoholic beverage.
The grape itself is characterized by the large amount of tannins and its thin skin. It is a fruit sensitive to frost. Regarding wine, Malbec has different characteristics depending on its origin due to the terroir (the land of cultivation) and the method of production.
Argentine Malbec , for example, has an intense color. According to specialists, its aroma refers to fruits such as plum, cherry and strawberry, while, in the mouth , the drink is sweet and smooth. When Malbec is aged in wood, the product acquires notes of coffee, vanilla and chocolate.
Other interesting facts about the Malbec grape that you should take into account:
-It is believed that its name derives from a Hungarian pilgrim who proceeded to spread the grape throughout France.
-In France, the area where most Malbec crops can be found is in Cahors, in the south of France.
-In Argentina, the Malbec grape was introduced in 1868 by an agronomist of German origin who went by the name of Michel Pouget.
-This type of grape has the particularity that it needs more heat and also more sun than Merlot and Sauvignon grapes. Likewise, it is very sensitive to frost and extreme cold.
-In some corners, such as the Loire Valley, the Malbec grape is mixed with Gamay or even with the so-called Cabernet Franc.
-Other places in the world where the Malbec grape is also grown are New Zealand, Chile, South Africa, Virginia, Bolivia, Australia and even in the so-called British Columbia.
-In general terms, we can establish that Malbec wines are soft and warm. In the same way, it is indicated that when palated you can find flavors of chocolate and vanilla, but also of fruits such as plum, for example.
-In addition to what is indicated, it must be established that the Malbec grape is very sensitive to certain diseases. Specifically, it is sensitive to the so-called cluster moth, mites, wood diseases such as excoriosis and leafhoppers.
As for pairing , experts say that Malbec is ideal to accompany red meats , pastas served with tomato sauce and hard cheeses. It is advisable to drink young Malbec at a temperature between 16ºC and 18ºC, while aged Malbec can be enjoyed at between 18ºC and 20ºC.