Malbec originates from the Médoc and is still used in red wines made here. However its susceptibility to disease has seen its popularity dwindle since its 19th century heyday.
Further south in Cahors, Malbec is still the main variety. Today, however, it has become the main red grape of Argentina, where it expresses a vivid blackberry fruitiness and a silky firmness not often achieved in France.
Malbec is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot in the Médoc and with Tannat and Merlot in Cahors. In Argentina Malbec excels in its own right and often benefits from oak ageing.
