Tasting notes

In Argentina, Malbec has floral notes with plummy fruit and supple tannins. In Cahors, Malbec makes tannic wines with earthy flavours, but it retains the floral notes. Further north in the Loire, it can create light wines with aromas of cherries. In Bordeaux blends, it adds colour and fragrance. It takes well to oak ageing, too. Lighter Malbecs can be served quite cool to emphasise the floral flavours.

Malbec is a great barbecue wine, and Cahors varieties go brilliantly with dishes like cassoulet. Supple French and Argentine Malbecs are also surprisingly good with tuna, sweet potato stews and pasta dishes.