Category:Majestic Guides

Discover the best of Malbec

Malbec is celebrated for its unmistakable flavour profile and growing versatility. It thrives in both high-altitude, sun-soaked vineyards and cooler, riverine valleys, allowing for a range of expressions. In warmer conditions, it shows deep plum and blackberry notes with subtle spice, while cooler sites yield structured wines with firm tannins and velvety texture.

"I'm so excited to bring this wine to our range – sourced from the diverse terroirs of Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco, it reflects winemaker Stephen Huse’s passion for revitalising historic vineyards using sustainable, modern techniques. It's a brilliant expression of the region's unique character."
- Jane Masters, Master of Wine

Argentina

An exciting new addition to our range, the Chopping Block Malbec aims to capture Mendoza’s tradition of asado. There’s an old legend in Argentina that speaks of the asado as a ritual that brings good fortune. It’s said that those who share their meat and wine with others will be blessed with prosperity and happiness, which is the ethos Chopping Block Malbec brings to life.

The grapes for this wine are sourced from two iconic subregions: Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco. Luján de Cuyo, with its warm climate and alluvial soils, offers a more traditional expression of Malbec, while Valle de Uco, cooler and higher in elevation, contributes remarkable acidity and complexity. Together, these regions create a dynamic profile that defines Mendoza’s Malbec.

The wine is juicy, with flavours of blackberry, plum and a subtle spice. With a drinking window of 5-10 years, it pairs beautifully with grilled steak, empanadas or lamb.

Another fantastic choice from Mendoza is the Trapiche Vineyards Malbec. This brand is among the most awarded in the country and was recently named Best New World Winery by Wine Enthusiast.

Vinified by celebrated winemaker Sergio Eduardo Casé, the grapes come from a mix of Trapiche’s own vineyards and select Mendoza growers to make for a quality red with fruity aromas of plum and cherry. With flavours of truffle and vanilla, it’s the perfect match for roasted meats or semi-hard cheeses.

When it comes to Argentinian Malbec, you can’t go wrong with our exclusive Definition by Majestic Malbec. With vineyards ranging between 800m and 1400m above sea level, the Uco Valley, a subregion of Mendoza in Argentina, has just the microclimate to make this grape shine.

Definition by Majestic Malbec, Uco Valley

Half the wine is aged in French oak for 10 months, with other portions aged in egg vats to protect the purity of the fruit and terroir. Expect wild blueberry and blackcurrant aromas and flavours of plum and spice. Pair it with grilled meats – steak is a winner, of course – or roasted vegetables and pasta.

Before winemaker Hervé J Fabre arrived in Argentina during the 1990s, the grape was used solely as a blending grape. Seeing its incredible potential, he became the first winemaker to champion its use on its own.

Viñalba 'Gran Reservado' Malbec, Mendoza

The Viñalba 'Gran Reservado' Malbec really showcases his expertise. Intense yet smooth tannins make it a great match for a meaty steak pie or chargrilled vegetables. Decant first for maximum effect.

France

Did you know that Malbec began in Europe? It's often celebrated as an Argentinian grape variety. But it all began in Cahors, France. That was around the time when Georges Vigouroux decided to honour the return of Malbec in its birthplace – creating Georges Vigouroux 'Le Grand Retour' Malbec.

This is a stunning example of what French Malbec has to offer; it’s exceptionally fruity and rich, with flavours of raspberry, blackcurrant and blackberry and ripe tannins. Try it with roast pork.

Georges Vigouroux 'Le Grand Retour' Malbec, Cahors

South Africa

While most associated with Argentina, Malbec thrives in South Africa, too, thanks to an ideal mix of Southern Hemisphere sun and refreshing ocean breezes. The Journey’s End ‘The Pioneer’ Malbec is proof of this. The Gabb family terroir is nestled in the Schapenberg Hills, which are some of the finest in South Africa, and this wine comes from three different vineyard blocks set 350m above sea level.

Journey's End 'The Pioneer' Malbec, Western Cape

Carefully picked at optimal times of day to ensure perfect ripeness, the grapes were fermented in stainless steel tanks before ageing in oak barrels for six months. Expect plenty of plum, cherry and blackberry flavour with a subtle note of cooked banana. Soft and silky, it’ll go well with both red and white meats, as well as stews and pasta dishes.

Chile

The Initials by Viña Indómita Gran Reserva Malbec is a distinctive wine from Chile’s finest regions. This wine is influenced by both the Andes and the Pacific Ocean, Biobío’s diverse soils – ranging from clay and sand to weathered volcanic ash – giving it a unique complexity. The valley’s temperate Mediterranean climate creates ideal conditions for producing Malbec with a really distinctive character. Winemaker Diego Covarrubias moved to the coastal Casablanca Valley in 2017 to lead Viña Indómita’s projects in the Casablanca, Maipo and Biobío Valleys.

He brings a meticulous approach to the winemaking process, always using entirely destemmed grapes and, for this particular wine, allowing cold maceration followed by a 15 to 21-day fermentation in specialised conical tanks to enhance the fruit’s natural flavours. The wine is then aged for 10 months in oak, giving it rich, velvety depth.

Initials by Viña Indómita Gran Reserva Malbec, Biobío Valley, Chile

How does it taste? Expect complex layers of white pepper, black tea and violet, backed by blueberries, wild herbs and a touch of volcanic minerality. With round, smooth tannins and a medium, silky body, this is a deep and lingering wine. Perfect with game meats, lamb, rich pasta sauces, or mature cheeses.

Although Malbec was made famous by the sun-kissed vineyards of Argentina, having hailed from France and now available across the globe, its versatility is clear. Its bold flavours and inviting character don’t disappoint, and fans of Malbec are sure to enjoy something they love in this comprehensive list of favourites!