Need to know

Malbec is originally from south-west France, where it’s known as cot or auxerrois. It creates reds that are full of colour. In fact, in the 18th century, the town of Cahors in France was famous for its ‘black’ wines.

It’s a solo star in Argentina and Cahors, but it’s also used in blends all over south-west France, Australia, Chile, North America, South Africa and New Zealand.

Growers in Argentina are increasingly heading to higher altitudes to get more delicate elegant flavours out of this robust grape.