For the past number of years at Hattersley Wines we have seen a steady increase in Malbec sales and not just from Argentina. Yes we have always had Malbec from France and latterly from Argentina but now we have an array of Malbecs from Chile, South Africa and even some corkers from Australia. And when you delve into these areas we aren't just looking at sub £15 wines, we have some superb expressions of the grape. There is so much Malbec to explore and just not enough time.
So, the question today… why is Malbec so popular?
- Easy to drink (and say!): Malbec's smooth, approachable nature makes it a favourite among both novice and seasoned wine drinkers. It's a wine that's easy to enjoy and share with friends and family.
- Flavour Profile: Malbec wines often boast flavours of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, with hints of chocolate, vanilla, and even tobacco. The combination of these flavours creates a deliciously complex and enjoyable wine.
- Smooth Tannins: Unlike some other bold red wines (like Cabernet Sauvignon), Malbecs tend to have softer tannins, making it smoother and more approachable.
- Versatility: Malbec pairs well with a wide variety of foods, from grilled meats and hearty stews to cheese and dark chocolate. It's a versatile wine that can complement many different dishes. Alternatively it is the perfect wine to cosy up to on a Sunday afternoon infront of the fire.
- Affordability: While there are certainly high-end Malbec wines, many are quite affordable, making it an accessible option for wine enthusiasts who want to enjoy a quality bottle without breaking the bank.
- Origins: Malbec originated in France, but it truly flourished in Argentina, where the high altitude and sunny climate create the perfect conditions for growing this grape. Argentine Malbecs are renowned for their bold flavours and smooth tannins.
The Argentinian influence cannot be ignored when looking at the popularity of Malbec. Malbec represents 37.8% of total wine sales locally and 65% of their wine export, in part due to their marketing and tourism efforts which have played a significant role in elevating Malbec to international fame.
The benefit to Argentina from the rise in Malbec is significant. A few of the impacts are noted below…
- Wine Tourism: Mendoza, the heart of Argentina's Malbec production, has become a major wine tourism destination. Mendoza attracts over 1 million wine tourists, representing 70% of the total visitors to wineries in Argentina. Wine tours, vineyard visits, and wine tasting events have helped promote Malbec globally.
- Heritage Marketing: Argentina has focused on preserving and promoting its wine heritage. This includes the creation of wine routes, cultural and gastronomic activities, and festivals like the Grape Harvest Festival. These efforts have not only attracted tourists but also highlighted the unique qualities of Malbec.
- Economic Impact: The success of Malbec has had a broader economic impact. The wine industry has created jobs, attracted foreign investment, and boosted Argentina's reputation as a premier wine-producing country. This has helped the country recover from economic downturns and continue to grow.
- Global Recognition: Argentina's marketing strategies have positioned Malbec as a symbol of Argentine wine. The country's efforts in exporting Malbec and promoting it through international wine fairs and competitions have solidified its status on the global stage.
My recommendations of grape Malbecs to try below!
