If you love red wine, you need to try a glass of Malbec as soon as possible. While Malbec may not be as well-known as more popular reds like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, its combination of a delightful flavor profile with a low price point makes it the perfect choice to accompany your next meal. However, many people are unfamiliar with Malbec, so allow us the opportunity to explain exactly what Malbec wine is by revealing five interesting facts about the red Argentinian wine.

1. Malbec is Made in Argentina and France

Malbec primarily comes from Argentina and France, although it is usually known primarily as an Argentine wine. The wine originated in France, but the grapes used to make Malbec had a tough time surviving the weather and pests of France. A French botanist took the grapes to Argentina and planted them in Mendoza, and the grapes and wine thrived!

The traditional Argentinian Malbec usually combines blackberry and plum fruit flavors with hints of cocoa, leather, and tobacco to give it a sweet taste and a smooth finish. The French Malbec is usually a little bit more tart and bitter, using black plum and mixes of black pepper, spices, and leathery flavors.

2. Malbec Leaves a Magenta-Tinged Rim

Malbec wine has a unique color, as it is a very deep reddish purple that is nearly opaque. This deep color will always leave a magenta rim when you are finished drinking a glass, so if you are ever in a blind taste test and see some magenta residue on the rim, you know the wine is Malbec.

3. A Little Oak Goes a Long Way

Malbec has a very oaky aftertaste, leading most to think the wine is kept in oak for a very long time. That is actually not the case, as most Malbec wines will only age in oak for 6 to 12 months.

4. Malbec and Steak Are a Match Made in Heaven

Malbec pairs perfectly with steak, combining a short finish with an acidic and sweet flavor profile. That is why you will find a bottle of Malbec on pretty much every table at an authentic Argentinian steakhouse. Puerto La Boca, the best Argentine restaurant in San Diego, is proud to offer a wide variety of Malbec wines to pair with our delicious steaks!

5. Malbec Pairs With More Than Just Steak

While Malbec is best paired with some red meat, steak is far from the only food that pairs perfectly with a glass of Malbec. The versatile wine also pairs with funky cheeses (like blue cheese), mushrooms, exotic spices, potatoes, and much more! If you are not sure if Malbec will pair with your meal, ask your waiter or an expert at the grocery store for assistance.

Try Malbec Wine at Puerto La Boca in Little Italy

Puerto La Boca is the most authentic Argentinian restaurant in San Diego, providing customers with delicious traditional Argentine cuisine at an affordable price. If you are interested in learning more about Malbec wine or would like to try a glass, come to our beautiful location in the heart of Little Italy. We can suggest the best Malbec to pair with your meal or the vintage that will best match your taste.

To learn more or to make a reservation, Puerto La Boca today by calling (619) 234-4900.