Ben's guide to malbec

Who are you and what's your role at Vinomofo?

I’m the Head of Buying here at Mofo and the guy who finds all our great wines out of South America. 

Let’s talk Malbec, To those that don’t know what is Malbec?

Malbec is the flagship grape of Argentina but it originally found fame in the French region of Cahors. It’s also a minor blending grape in Bordeaux. The wines have power, drive and density, yet also express themselves quite differently depending on the climate and soil where the fruit is grown.

When did you first try Malbec, and what was your initial impression of the wine?

I probably first tried Malbec back when I lived in California in the early 2000’s. My initial impression was that it had a similar intensity and complexity to the popular Napa Cabernets of the time, but without the massive tannins that required extensive cellaring.

How did you fall in love with Malbec?

I always found the grape compelling, but a 2019 visit to Mendoza really opened my eyes to the range of styles that were being produced. There were juicy, rich versions from the flat lands of Luján de Cuyo near the city of Mendoza, as well as chalky, savoury styles from the Uco Valley as it stretched to the foothills of the Andes Mountains. Tasting the wines in their place of origin while chatting with the winemakers was an unforgettable experience.

What do you think makes Malbec stand out from other red wines?

There’s great value to be found in all price ranges with Malbec. You don’t need to empty the wallet to get a good one, but the top wines drink as well as many of the classics from other regions that are far more expensive.

What are some of your favourite food pairings for Malbec?

It’s hands down the absolute perfect wine to pair with steak. Mendozans drink it with grilled Asada and there might not be a more satisfying meal out there. If you don’t mess with meat, then getting a good char on some mushrooms or root vegetables will let them pair beautifully with Malbec as well.

What's your favourite Malbec at the moment?

I’m really enjoying the Bodegas Bianchi IV Generación Malbec 2019 at the moment. It’s insanely layered and complex with some really nice mineral notes and herbal touches.

I like Big Reds will I like Malbec? How does Malbec compare to other red wines?

Absolutely. It’s a big red wine and sits nicely between Shiraz and Cabernet in terms of tannin profile. If you’re into either of those (or Zinfandel, GSM and the like), then you’ll dig Malbec.

Tell me about your favourite time in Argentina.

One morning we drove out to the Andes foothills and hopped on trail horses. A few locals led us up into the mountains and we stopped on a rocky hillside to build a little fire. Our guides cooked up a traditional Asada over the fire as we drank their homemade Malbec out of leather pouches. The perfect meal and drink in its ideal setting…just an absolute treat that I’ll never forget.

Can you recommend a Malbec for someone who is new to the varietal? (link to product + Code BEN10 for 10$ off, because I want you to try Malbec *THAT* much

La Posta Pizzella Malbec 2021 - sourced from a single vineyard cared for by the Pizzella family and made by Laura Catena from the famous Catena family of Mendoza