Malbec?

[robr]

I understand Argentina makes some very good reds from this grape, and not too expensive.

Is this a new variety, or just an unusual one? I don't think I have ever heard of a Malbec wine from France or California.

Is it heavy, or medium, or light? Usually oaked, or not?

Am I asking enough questions?

[dananne]

Not too many questions. As a teacher, there is no such thing.

Malbec is a red grape from Bordeaux, but is becoming rarer there. It is also planted in Loire and Cahors. It has become Argentina's signature red grape, making medium to heavy (depending on producer), plummy, rich wines. If anyone makes one unoaked, I've never seen it. They can be jammy and big when young, with a tannic structure, but become more silky with a bit of bottle age. For a start, I'd recommend you try the following Argentine producers, all of which are pretty widely available -- Catena, Terrazas de los Andes, and Dominio del Plata.

[wondersofwine]

In Bordeaux Malbec is one of the grapes acceptable for a blended red Bordeaux along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. It is generally not used there except in blended wines. I was impressed with a couple Argentine Malbecs I tried at a tasting in a DC wineshop but have not yet purchased any to drink at home.

[jv38]

Bodegas Norton Privada Malbec is a good example of this grape from Argentina. Chances are there are better but... I'm on a budget... [img]http://www.wines.com/ubb2/cool.gif[/img]

[winoweenie]

robr if you go back on the thread I've posted on several sizzling Malbecs from the Guacho nation. Love the lil' hummers for P/Q. WW

[jmcginley1]

I've found the Malbecs from Cohors, France(all wines in Cohors must be 70%+ Malbec) tend to be denser, darker and bolder than their South American counterparts, often requiring years for their tannins to soften. (but when they do, wow, some seriously good and affordable wines are made there.)

I have also had good expieriance with the Malbec from Bodega Norton.

[robr]

I found one... drank most of the bottle myself three nights ago on a mini-vacation weekend getaway hiatus etc. It was Santa --- something, 2001 vintage. Sorry, I don't remember. It was very nice, more like a good Italian blended red than a Cotes du Rhone.

Argentinian Malbec has been added to my list.

[immolation75]

Try a Bundini (sp??). I think its from Chile or Argentina. It has a big yellow cat with really long legs on the lable. Malbec has become one of my fav. reds to drink.

[Innkeeper]

Over the recent years we've made 38 postings on Malbec and just about all have been positive TNs and recommendations. Most recently have posted on and still enjoying 2003 Altos Las Hormigas, Malbec, Mendoza ($8.99).

[robr]

I remember now -- it was Santa Ercilia, I think. I really liked it. I will definitly buy more of these.

[immolation75]

Innkeeper,

I just bought a bottle of the Altos. I think they also make a reserve that goes for about $12.99 or so...haven't tried it yet. Malbec is just so hard to find in Dayton. Even my decent wine stores around here have very little of it.