6 magnificent malbecs to toast World Malbec Day

Some grapes are worth making a song and dance about… the ones that greet you with open arms, come with the promise of a smile with every sip, and don’t challenge you with their complexity – all hail the mighty malbec.

Naturally, terroir – characteristics of the soil and climate – comes into play and this is where Argentina peaks with its high altitude, streaming sunshine and perfect growing conditions to bedazzle us with these violet beauties.

Here, in honour of World Malbec Day (April 17), we’ve rounded up six stellar choices to gratify your inner gaucho…

1. Buenas Vides Malbec 2024, Mendoza, Argentina, £6.29, Aldi, in-store

Lots of fun and great value, it’s easy to see how this moreish malbec must fly off the shelves – and a delicious example of how the fragrant, plummy aromas, rich berry notes and bright fruity finish taste fresh, pure and plush – even at this price point.

2. Don David Blend of Terroirs Malbec 2023, Calchaqui Valley, Argentina, £10.50, Co-op in-store

Beautifully perfumed with signature violet and floral aromas, good body and structure, this malbec packs a lot of plum and blackberry into every sip. Juicy and fresh, it’s generously cushioned with swathes of ripe black fruits, delicate tannins and a long, lingering finish.

3. Santa Julia Private Reserve Malbec 2023, Uco Valley, Argentina, £11.75, Sainsbury’s

Polished, smooth and concentrated, this rich red offers a bouquet of plums, spice and vanilla, and delivers what it promises on the palate. Silky and succulent, everything melds seamlessly together with impressive length and depth of flavour.

4. Definition by Majestic Malbec 2022, Mendoza, Argentina, £13.99 (£10.99 Mix Six), Majestic

A real gem with blueberry and blackcurrant aromas galore, the more this wine opens up, the more seductive the basket of fruit. Approachable and generous, flavours of wild blueberry, blackberry and spice linger on the velvety smooth finish, with touches of violet and plums.

5. M&S Collection Susana Balbo Malbec 2024, Mendoza Argentina, £14, Ocado

Another brilliant own-label, expect some high-altitude mineral freshness with this stylish, sumptuous red which has ‘drink me’ written all over it. Fragrant with scents of wild flowers, a floor of ripe forest fruits are lifted by blueberry and blackberry nuances, with a persistent, long finish. Bring on a steak.

6. Argento Single Vineyard Altamira Organic Malbec 2021, Mendoza, Argentina, £16.40, Wine Direct

A wine to swoon over with a beguiling bouquet of violets and sweet spice – showcasing the grapes’ aromatic intensity – this rich malbec cloaks the palate with exuberant plummy black fruits, hints of soft spice and vanilla. Beautifully balanced with some mineral notes on the lengthy finish, it’s super-smooth, enticing and worth seeking out.