Notes:

The with the popularity of Malbec growing daily, we felt it was time to introduce a Magical Malbec Mixed Case.  Malbec is a variety of purple grape used in making red wine. The grapes tend to have an inky dark colour and robust tannins. Long known as one of the six grapes allowed in the blend of red Bordeaux wine, the French plantations of Malbec are now found primarily in Cahors in the South West France region. However, it is increasingly celebrated as an Argentine varietal wine where the climatic conditions are particularly suitable but it is also being grown all around the world.

Called Auxerrois or Côt Noir in Cahors, called Malbec in Bordeaux, and Pressac in other places, the grape became less popular in Bordeaux after 1956 when frost killed off 75% of the crop. Despite Cahors being hit by the same frost, which devastated the vineyards, Malbec was replanted and continued to be popular in that area where it was mixed with Merlot and Tannat to make dark, full-bodied wines, and more recently has been made into 100% Malbec varietal wines.

The Malbec grape is a thin-skinned grape and needs more sun and heat than either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to mature.  It ripens mid-season and can bring very deep colour, ample tannin, and a particular plum-like flavour component to add complexity. Sometimes, especially in its traditional growing regions, it is not trellised and cultivated as bush vines (the goblet system). The resultant wines are rich, dark and juicy.

Source: Wikipedia

The wines we have chosen to showcase here demonstrate just how good the Malbec grape is.  All 6 are from Argentina, they are big and gutsy and designed to be drunk with big, flavourful food.  These wines are particularly good with a big, juicy steak.  This is another reason why this grape variety is so lauded in Argentina.  They do LOVE their steak!

Enjoy!