More Than Just Argentina

Every year on 17th April, wine lovers around the world raise a glass to Malbec. World Malbec Day marks the moment in 1853 when Argentina formally set out to transform its wine industry, a decision that would ultimately cement Malbec as the country’s flagship grape.

But while Argentina made Malbec famous, it certainly doesn’t own it. Originally from south-west France, where it’s known as Côt or Auxerrois, Malbec has travelled far and wide. Today, it expresses itself differently depending on where it’s grown: plush and sun-drenched in Mendoza, structured and savoury in Cahors, vibrant and experimental in South Africa, and increasingly exciting in Chile and beyond.

To celebrate World Malbec Day, we’re highlighting a small but characterful line-up that shows just how versatile this grape can be.

 

 

Bodega Sottano

Malbec 2023 – Argentina

A classic Mendoza expression from a family-run estate rooted in Italian heritage. Bodega Sottano works at high altitude in the foothills of the Andes, where warm days and cool nights allow Malbec to ripen fully while retaining freshness.

The 2023 is generous yet polished, with ripe blackberry, plum and hints of cocoa and sweet spice. Smooth tannins and balanced acidity make it incredibly drinkable, whether paired with steak, grilled vegetables or simply enjoyed on its own. If you’re looking for that quintessential Argentine style, this delivers in spades.

 

Blank Bottle Winery

Jaa-Bru!! Malbec 2023 – South Africa

Pieter Walser of Blank Bottle is known for his rule-breaking, curiosity-driven approach to winemaking. His wines often tell a story before you’ve even opened the bottle, and Jaa-Bru !! is no exception.

This South African Malbec leans towards freshness and vibrancy rather than sheer weight. Expect bright red and black fruits, subtle spice and a lively, energetic structure. It’s expressive, slightly wild around the edges, and full of personality, proof that Malbec can thrive far beyond its traditional homes.

 

Clos La Coutale

Cahors 2023 – France

If Argentina is Malbec’s adopted home, Cahors is its birthplace. Historically known as the “black wine” of France, Cahors produces darker, more structured examples of the grape.

Clos La Coutale is a benchmark producer, blending Malbec with a touch of Merlot for balance. The 2023 offers black cherry, damson and earthy undertones, with firmer tannins and a savoury edge. This is Malbec with grip and heritage, brilliant with duck, cassoulet or hearty spring stews.

 

Ana Maria Cumsille

Ciprés Malbec 2022 – Chile

Ana Maria Cumsille makes wines with an unistakable sense of place and minimal intervention  in the production. Her Ciprés Malbec shows a more lifted, aromatic side of the grape.

The 2022 vintage is vibrant and fresh, with juicy red fruits, floral hints and gentle herbal notes. There’s brightness and elegance here, a lighter-footed style that works beautifully with charcuterie, grilled lamb or even richer fish dishes.

 

Chateau le Payral

Neo Malbec 2022 – France

From south-west France, Château le Payral takes a modern approach to a traditional grape. The “Neo” bottling signals a fresher, contemporary interpretation.

Expect supple black fruit, subtle spice and smooth tannins, all wrapped up in a medium-bodied frame. It bridges the gap between Cahors structure and Argentine generosity, a versatile, food-friendly style that shows how adaptable Malbec can be.

 

El Corazon Manda

Malbec 2022 – Argentina

“El Corazón Manda” translates to “the heart decides,” and this wine wears its heart proudly on its sleeve. Made in Argentina, it leans into Malbec’s plush, fruit-driven appeal and a more premium iteration of this popular grape.

Ripe plum, blackberry and hints of vanilla lead into a rounded, approachable palate. Soft tannins and juicy fruit make this an easy crowd-pleaser, perfect for relaxed dinners, barbecues or sharing with friends.

A Grape with Global Reach

What makes Malbec so exciting is its ability to reflect its surroundings. From the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza to the limestone soils of Cahors and the experimental cellars of South Africa, it shifts character while retaining its core identity: dark fruit, generous texture and an unmistakable depth of colour.

This World Malbec Day, why not taste the differences side by side? Explore its French roots, its Argentine fame and its New World creativity.

Malbec may have found global popularity, but its story is still being written, one vineyard, one winemaker and one glass at a time.