The must-visit station on the East side
Mal-beck
Red
Grape
Malbec is everybody’s new favourite, probably because of its dark, smooth, up-front fruit with the potential for some firm tannins. Its spiritual home is Argentina, even though it is traditionally grown in the South West of France, it is the prinicipal grape in Cahors, where it has a reputation for being mouth-stickingly tannic. In Argentina it tends to be a bit friendlier, with rich, smooth edges whilst maintaining steak-appropriate tannin.
Things you should know
Top Tip: The high altitude vineyards of the Uco Valley in Argentina are amongst the best for growing Malbec, where you get a rich, fresh, smooth wine.
Specific Food Match: It is difficult to say anything but steak, particularly great Argentinean steak. But, the smoothness means it's pretty versatile, as long as there's some red meat involved.