Happy World Malbec Wine Day everyone! Today, we celebrate one of the most beloved wines in the world, the Malbec.

Most of us might think that Malbec is a grape variety from Argentina, but did you know that this grape originally came from France? In fact, Malbec was one of the most important grapes in Bordeaux in the 19th century, until it fell out of favor due to its susceptibility to disease and the difficulty in ripening it in the cool Bordeaux climate. However, the grape found a new home in the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza, Argentina, where it thrived and became one of the country's signature wines.

But let's not forget that France still produces some of the best Malbec wines in the world. The grape is still grown in Cahors, a small town in the southwestern region of France, where it is known as the "black wine" because of its deep color. The wines from Cahors are typically fuller-bodied and more tannic than their Argentine counterparts, with flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Malbec wines from Cahors, and many winemakers are focusing on producing high-quality wines that showcase the terroir and the characteristics of the grape. The region has also embraced sustainable and organic farming practices, which have helped to improve the quality of the wines and protect the environment.

If you're looking to try some Malbec wines from France, I highly recommend trying a bottle from Cahors. Look for wines that are made from 100% Malbec, as blends may not give you a true sense of the grape's characteristics. Some of my personal favorites include the Château du Cèdre Le Cèdre Malbec, which is known for its intense aromas of dark fruit and its silky tannins, and the Domaine du Théron Prestige Malbec, which is full-bodied and complex, with flavors of blackberry, vanilla, and spice.

Of course, we can't forget about the amazing Malbec wines that are produced in Argentina. The grape has become synonymous with the country's wine industry and for good reason. The high-altitude vineyards in the Mendoza region provide the perfect conditions for Malbec to thrive, resulting in wines that are rich, full-bodied, and packed with flavor.

If you're looking to try some Malbec wines from Argentina, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular and highly-rated brands include Catena Zapata, Bodega Norton, and Achaval-Ferrer. These wineries produce a range of Malbec wines that showcase the grape's versatility, from fruity and approachable wines that are perfect for everyday drinking to more complex and age-worthy wines that are ideal for special occasions.

In conclusion, Malbec is a grape that has come a long way since its days in Bordeaux. Today, it is celebrated all over the world, and for good reason. Whether you prefer the full-bodied and tannic wines from Cahors or the fruity and approachable wines from Argentina, there's a Malbec out there that is sure to please your palate. So, on this World Malbec Wine Day, let's raise a glass to this amazing grape and all the wonderful wines that it has inspired. Cheers!