Malbec is widely regarded as Argentina’s signature grape. The French varietal, which is permitted in Bordeaux blends and is a key grape in Cahors, is grown all across the South American nation in a wide array of styles. It “is cultivated extensively throughout Argentina, spanning from the northernmost to the southernmost, and from the eastern to the western regions,” says Jesica Vargas, Wine Enthusiast’s resident reviewer of South American wines.
In the north, regions like the Cafayate Valley have warm days, long growing seasons and high-altitude vineyards, which leads to robust, fruit-forward wines that are higher in alcohol. In the south, regions like Río Negro have cooler climates and short growing seasons. These Malbecs tend to be lighter with crisp acidity. The larger central wine regions of Argentina include Mendoza, La Rioja and San Juan. Vineyards bordering the mountains are planted at different elevations, which help to create a diversity of flavors and styles.
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“High-elevation Malbec is particularly noteworthy, with numerous winemakers growing vines in both established and emerging geographical indications, such as San Pablo in the Uco Valley, which sits above 3,860 feet,” says Vargas. The cool temperatures and rocky soils, which boast electrifying limestone, enable the production of wines with a fresher profile that’s aligned with current consumer preferences. These elegant bottles join a growing slew of selections that have been specially made to represent their place of origin. “The vibrant reds that are now being crafted in Argentina differ from those oaky bold Malbec of the past, with a new generation of winemakers using both traditional and modern techniques to achieve wines that express the terroir,” Vargas adds.
That’s not to say the bold and jammy wines that earned the country international acclaim are no longer on the table, “but now those wines are more balanced,” says Vargas. “There is a wide range of Malbec wines.”
To help you find the most impressive expressions of the increasingly diverse varietal, we tapped our experts to round up their favorite versions on the market. From splurge-worthy Editors’ Choice picks that will develop and evolve for years to come, to highly-rated bottles for under $30, here are the best Malbec wines from Argentina right now.
Catena Zapata 2020 Nicasia Vineyard Malbec (Paraje Altamira)
Altos Las Hormigas 2021 Jardin De Hormigas Meteora Malbec (Paraje Altamira)
Aromas of jarilla, rosemary, peppercorn and flint are followed by wild berries. The wine is full-bodied, with elegant tannins and silky texture. Bright ripe fruit flavors are enhanced by hints of licorice, dried herbs and black pepper that extend into a savory aftertaste. This is a delicious Malbec from the winery’s vineyards in Paraje Altamira, Uco Valley. Editors’ Choice. 94 Points — J.V.
Trivento 2018 Eolo Malbec (Mendoza)
Great complexity on the nose with enticing floral, blackberry, plum and subtle oak notes. This red is concentrated and lively with firm and silky tannins. The palate delivers plenty of dark fruit flavors with hints of smoke and nice acidity due to a smart use of oak. It is an elegant full-bodied wine made from 100 year old vines, and has a lingering finish with fruit flavors. 94 Points — J.V.
Antigal 2018 One Doña Angeles Vineyard Malbec (Mendoza)
Fresh berries join notes of cinnamon and cedar in the inviting nose of this single-vineyard Malbec. Polished, firm tannins and optimal acidity frame a well-balanced blend of nutmeg and plums that fills the mouth. Layers of herbs, black pepper and chocolate complement the silky palate. Drink now through 2033. 93 Points— J.V.
Kaiken 2020 Mai Malbec (Mendoza)
Aromas of Jarilla, thyme and chalk serve as an introduction to this Malbec from high-altitude vineyards in Luján de Cuyo. Full-bodied, it features a solid structure holding fresh fruit flavors of blackberries. The palate is deep and smooth and includes hints of dried herbs, chocolate truffles, black pepper and nutmeg. 92 Points — J.V.
Clos d’Argentine 2020 Winemaker’s Selection Gran Reserva Malbec (Mendoza)
This wine offers dried cherries on the nose. It’s a juicy Malbec, with a fruit-forward and well-structured palate. Supported by ripe tannins, chocolate and dried herbs add an extra layer of flavors that lengthen the enjoyable finish. 91 Points — J.V.
Magna Montis 2022 Malbec (Paraje Altamira)
Viña Cobos 2021 Bramare Malbec (Luján de Cuyo)
The winery was founded by Paul Hobbs in 1998. The winemaker and his local team focus on Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, two grapes that love Mendoza’s terroir. This is a balanced Malbec, with notes of raspberry and oak-driven aromas. It delivers flavors of cherry jam, mulberry, herbs and vanilla bean. Excellent acidity infuses energy to the palate, as round tannins provide support. Editors’ Choice. 91 Points — J.V.
Marcelo Pelleriti 2020 Signature Malbec (Uco Valley)
Delicate aromas of berries and violets interact with herbs and a dash of pink pepper. It’s a silky Malbec with elegant tannins and a fruit-focused palate, where a balanced dose of spices and leafy notes adds to its complexity. Plum, blackberry, rosemary, peppercorn and cinnamon extend into the finish. 92 Points — J.V.
Monteviejo 2020 Petite Fleur Malbec (Uco Valley)
There is a delicate perfume of fresh plums and roses on the nose. This is balanced and expressive, with fine tannins. Cranberry, blueberry, cinnamon and nutmeg mix on the silky palate. It’s a wonderful combination of quality and value. 92 Points — J.V.
Zuccardi 2021 Poligonos Del Valle de Uco Malbec (Paraje Altamira)
An aromatic nose of violets, cherry and pomegranate mixed with notes of rosemary and peppercorn after a few minutes. The palate is structured and fresh, with round tannins backing cranberry and other tart fruits. It has a lasting peppery finish and good acidity. 92 Points — J.V.
Famiglia Mosso 2020 Malbec (Mendoza)
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