Malbec World Day (April 17th) is right around the corner. A sure sign of its success, the celebration of Argentina’s flagship variety just seems to get bigger every year. A few years ago, I wrote: “Argentina is in the enviable position of having almost too big a hit on its hands.” Indeed… and then some. This is the 8th annual celebration, now held in over 70 cities in 54 countries worldwide.
Even though Malbec accounts for only about a quarter of Argentina’s plantings it makes up about 70 percent (by volume) of the country’s wine exports and over 90% by value.
Malbec: approachable and affordable
When it comes to hitting that wine marketing ‘sweet spot’ of around $20-$25, Argentine Malbec is right on the money.
No question, its consumer-friendly, fruit-forward, (read: easy drinking) style is exactly what the budget conscious wine drinker is looking for. It’s also the perfect barbecue wine—especially if you’re into grilling red meats or serious sausages. In the under $20 range, there’s plenty of evidence that Malbec has usurped even Aussie Shiraz as the wallet watcher’s red wine of choice.
Cafayate vineyard
MASL: upping the ante
Several years, Argentina producers started to focus on higher quality and premium Malbec. The majority of these wines come from higher elevation plantings, such as in sub-regions Uco Valley and Luján de Cuyo. They’re usually identified on the label with their MASL info. (Metres Above Sea Level.) It was a move that’s more than paid off. The higher elevations yield better diurnals (the difference between day and night-time temperatures) which result in more gradual ripening and preserves acidity during ripening.
All of which means it’s well worth your while to explore Malbec at a slightly higher price point. And judging by our recent sampling, of an across the board selection, you won’t be disappointed.
Wine reviews
Trapiche Malbec Reserve 2023
A long-running, wallet friendly drop from Argentina’s biggest exporter. Red and black fruit aromas, vanilla notes with assertive tannin and oak on the dark cherry and plum palate. An uncomplicated budget option at $15.99. On special at BCLS $12.99 through April 26th. 89 pts.
Calchaqui Valley – Amanda Barnes South America Wine Guide
Michel Torino Don David Reserve Malbec 2023 ‘El Esteco’
Here’s one of few Malbecs in the local market that come from Salta (as opposed to Mendoza, which produces most of Argentina’s wine). Salta is in the northwest of Argentina, not far from the border with Chile and Bolivia. I’ve been lucky enough to visit wine regions almost the world over. But few share Salta’s stunning beauty and spiritual landscapes, which have never left me. This super high altitude wine comes from Calchaqui Valley and is made with fruit grown at 1700 MAS. (5,577 ft.), amongthe world’s highest vineyards. Lifted red and black berries with appealing vanilla and spice notes. Juicy entry, quite velvety, with damson plum and dark cherry palate, well-integrated tannins and impressive varietal character. Wicked value at $19.49 BCLS, 92 pts.
Andes range, Mendoza, hiredBelly photo
Terrazas de Los Andes Malbec Reserva 2021
Sourced from special lots in eight high-altitude Uco and Luyan de Cuyo vineyards, ranging from 1070 to 1650 MAS. Aromas of black fruit, cassis and Ribena, leading to approachable tannins with black pepper and vanilla hints. Long and plush on the juicy palate, with black current and wild blackberry notes. Open well ahead of drinking (or decant) and it will evolve to reward you even more. A standout Malbec. $31.99 (Marquis Wine Cellar) 93 pts.
Luigi Bosca Malbec 2022
From one of Argentina’s longest running wineries (est.1901), in Luyan de Cuyo, higher up in the Andes foothills, 900 -1100 MAS. Up-front blue and black fruits plus some oak notes on the nose, leading to a black cherry and damson palate. Mouth-filling, juicy acidity underpinned by approachable tannins with a hint of mineral. $24.99 BCLS until April 26 (regular $26.99). 91 pts.
Doña Paula Estate High Altitude Malbec 2023
From hand-picked, calcareous vineyards at higher elevations (1100 m 1350 MAS (3610 and 4430 ft) in the Uco Valley. Floral, black fruit and savoury notes up front followed by a layered, complex cherry-chocolate palate with a smidgeon of black pepper, approachable tannins and mineral undertones through a lengthy end. Excellent value. $14.99 BCLS (regular $19.99), 91 pts.
Finca Decero, Agrelo, Luyan de Cuyo (supplied)
Finca Decero Malbec 2021 Remolinos ‘High Mountain’ Vineyard, Luyan de Cuyo
The star of the show, ‘Decero’ is a play on de zero, meaning “out of nothing.’ On the nose, red berries and floral aromas lead to a supple, intense raspberry and cherry toned palate wrapped in good acidity. Approachable but refined tannins, impeccably structured with great depth and a lengthy end. 94 pts. Hand-picked and gravity-fed, low yields, 3050 to 3500 MAS. $29.98 (Everything Wine) 94 pts.
Finca Decero Remolinos Malbec vineyard, hiredBelly photo
Where to Taste & Buy …
Saturday, April 12th, 2025
1 pm – 4 pm., Marquis Wine Cellar (Vancouver) & Metro Liquor (Tsawwassen)
Both stores will host free wine tastings focusing on great-value Argentina Malbec wines paired with empanadas.
Donations to the BC Hospitality Foundation will be gratefully accepted.
Wednesday, April 16, 2025
2:30 – 6:30 pm. BC Liquor, 39th and Cambie.
“More than Malbec’ free tasting. A selection of Argentine wines paired with empanadas. Event information here.
Thursday, April 17, 2025
2:30 – 6:30 pm. BC Liquor, 39th and Cambie
“Stock Up for Malbec World Day” Free tasting of a selection of Argentine Malbec paired with empanadas.
Event information here.
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