Wine Wednesday: Malbec Wines Around the World

Malbec grapes may originate from the Bordeaux region, but you won’t just find wine made with these grapes in the southwest corner of France. After all, these red wine grapes are often used in “blended” wines, including Cahors vintages along the Lot River in France.

Malbec is also an important part of the winemaking traditions of Argentina, which tourists can discover during a wine tour and cooking vacation, such as our Cuisine and Wine of Mendoza culinary vacation.

Cahors wine is considered the original Malbec, as Malbec grapes were developed by the Romans and the wine became popular in the Middle Ages, as it was preferred by Pope John XXII as well as Henry II of England. While Cahors is made up of a variety of grapes, Malbec is by far the dominate flavor as it makes up 70% of Cahors wine. The wine itself is a blackish-purple with an aroma of currants. If enjoyed shortly after bottling, it has strong tannins, so they’re best aged.

Argentina’s cuisine and wine was heavily influenced by immigrants, including those from southwest France. Malbec grapes were introduced, and today Malbec wines are a trademark of Argentina. The grapes are easily cultivated thanks to advanced irrigation techniques in the South American country.

No matter what country Malbec wines hail from, they go well with hearty dishes, particularly steak and other meats. In France, Cahors wine is paired with confit dishes, as well as cassoulet and mushrooms. Discover more about this delectable wine during our Bordeaux cooking vacations as well as our cooking vacations to Argentina.

By Liz Hall

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