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Written by Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein

As with several other international grapes, Malbec (mælˈbɛk) has proven more successful as an expat than in its homeland, Bordeaux, France. Malbec from Argentina, for example, typically outclasses counterparts from France, including Cahors, an area of southwest France traditionally identified with varietal Malbec. A gifted Argentine winemaker once told me: “Malbec makes great wines anywhere in the country. There may be regional differences, but the results are always good.” Judging from my tastings across the country, he's right. And in California, while Malbec is a relative newcomer, the results are also exciting, promising, and delicious!

0.84%

Total Vineyard/Winegrape Plantings in California
3,900 Acres

Bearing and Non-bearing Acreage in California

0.84%

Total Vineyard/Winegrape Plantings in California
1,578.27 Hectares

Bearing and Non-bearing Acreage in California

Year end 2021

Introduction

Signature Styles & Characteristics

Although any grape can be interpreted in innovative and at times, outlying styles, the below chart/graphic represents the preponderance of what you will find in California winemakers producing.

Dryness/Residual Sugar

Malbec: 100 percent on a scale from Dry to of Dryness/Residual Sugar.
Acid (potential)

Malbec: 85 percent on a scale from Low to High of Acid (potential).
Alcohol (potential)

Malbec: 100 percent on a scale from Low to High of Alcohol (potential).
Body (weight on palate)

Malbec: 100 percent on a scale from Light to Full of Body (weight on palate).
Texture

Malbec: 100 percent on a scale from Gritty and Astringent to Round and Smooth of Texture.
Tannin

Malbec: 85 percent on a scale from Low to High of Tannin.

Aromas/Flavors

Influenced by climate, terroir, clonal selection and winemaking.

Fruit

Blackberry, mulberry, boysenberry, black currant (cassis), red/ black plum, blueberry, black/red cherry, black/red raspberry, pomegranate, citrus rind (orange, mandarin), prune, raisin
Vegetable

Licorice (red/black), black/green olive, fennel, rhubarb, tomato leaf, cola nut
Herbal/Floral

Violet, lavender, rose, hyacinth, mint/eucalyptus, oregano, laurel, thyme, sage, rosemary, green/black tea, sarsaparilla, pipe tobacco or cigar box
Earth

Dusty earth, humus, mushroom, gravel, graphite (pencil box)
Wood (Oak)

Nutmeg, coconut, coffee bean, mocha, milk and dark chocolate, toast, cocoa, molasses, walnut, maple, vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, sawdust or cut wood, paprika, smoke
Other

Berry yogurt, black pepper, smoked meat, soy, leather