Beyond Red: The Surprising World of Argentine Malbec

In this article, we introduce some of the most popular variants of Argentine Malbec—each with its own flavor, aroma, and texture. They’re perfect to discover on your next trip to Argentina.

Argentine Malbec: A Classic in Constant Evolution

Originally known for its bold, fruity reds, Argentine Malbec has evolved impressively over recent decades. Its ability to adapt to different climates, altitudes, and soils across the country has resulted in a wide range of profiles—from robust reds to vibrant whites.

According to the Argentine Wine Observatory, Malbec accounts for about 23% of all grape varieties grown in the country. This helps explain why Argentina is recognized globally not just for the volume of Malbec it produces, but also for its quality and stylistic diversity.

White Malbec: The New Favorite for the Curious

White Malbec is one of the most exciting innovations to come out of Argentina. It’s made from Malbec grapes, but the skins are removed before fermentation. This results in wines that are white or slightly pink, depending on how briefly the skins remain in contact with the juice. The outcome: fresh, fruity wines with bright acidity.

These wines typically offer notes of tropical fruit, citrus, and a refreshing mouthfeel—perfect to pair with seafood, salads, or enjoy as an aperitif.

Some pioneering wineries in this style:

• Bodega Tapiz – Its White Malbec is one of the most acclaimed: elegant, floral, and beautifully balanced.

• Bodega Santa Julia – Offers a young, accessible, and super refreshing White Malbec.

• Kaiken Wines – Combines Malbec’s freshness with a surprising minerality, reminiscent of great white wines from around the world.

Malbec Rosé: Freshness and Color All Year Round

Malbec Rosé is another fast-growing expression of Argentina's flagship grape. With hues ranging from pale salmon to vibrant pink, these wines stand out for their aromas of strawberry, cherry, and pink grapefruit, their lively acidity, and refreshing finish.

This is the perfect wine to pair with light meals, sushi, or simply to enjoy during a summer sunset.

Some outstanding examples:

• Bodega Luigi Bosca – Their Malbec Rosé features fresh cherry notes and a long, lively finish.

• Susana Balbo Wines – Offers an elegant rosé with good structure and a highly gastronomic profile

• Andeluna Cellars – Produces a high-altitude Malbec Rosé bursting with freshness and minerality.

High-Altitude Malbec: Purity and Elegance from Northern Argentina

In regions like Cafayate Valley (Salta), high-altitude Malbecs are known for their intense aromas, natural freshness, vibrant acidity, and unique mineral notes—a result of extreme temperatures and strong sunlight exposure at altitude.

Some standout wineries producing this style include:

• Bodega El Esteco – Complex wines from vineyards over 1,700 meters above sea level, known for their strong varietal character.

• Piattelli Vineyards – Offers a premium Malbec with impressive structure and depth.

• Bodega Colomé – Crafts Malbec from one of the highest vineyards in the world (up to 3,111 meters), delivering bold and vibrant flavors.

Patagonian Malbec: Southern Freshness

In southern Argentina, Patagonian Malbec offers a fresher profile, with crisp red fruits, vibrant acidity, and silky tannins.

The cold climate and constant winds result in elegant wines with a refined, modern character and noticeable acidity.

Some representative wineries:

• Bodega Patritti – Located in San Patricio del Chañar (Neuquén), produces fresh and well-balanced Malbecs.

• Bodega del Fin del Mundo – One of Patagonia’s pioneers, known for its fruit-forward and versatile Malbecs.

• Familia Schroeder – Crafts delicate Malbecs with a distinct Patagonian identity.

Mendoza: Cradle of All Malbec Styles

Mendoza, Argentina’s main wine-producing region, accounts for over 70% of the country’s total wine production. Its geographic diversity allows for a wide range of Malbec profiles:

• In Luján de Cuyo, Malbecs tend to be ripe, round, with soft, slightly sweet tannins.

• In the Uco Valley, they are juicier, more mineral, and often age-worthy.

Some iconic wineries:

• Catena Zapata – A global benchmark in high-end Malbec and terroir expression.

• Bodega Norton – Known for tradition and accessible quality.

• Zuccardi Valle de Uco – A leader in innovation and terroir-driven wines.

Malbec and Beyond: A Grape with No Limits

Today, Argentine Malbec is not only reinvented through new winemaking styles, but also blended with noble varieties like Cabernet Franc, Merlot, or Petit Verdot, resulting in wines of great complexity and aging potential.

More and more wineries are also experimenting with alternative aging vessels—such as amphorae, concrete eggs, or large oak foudres—highlighting the purity of the fruit and bringing new layers of expression to Argentine wine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Argentine Malbec

What is White Malbec?

It’s a white or slightly rosé wine made 100% from Malbec grapes, using a very short maceration to avoid color extraction.

Where are the best Malbec wines produced in Argentina?

Mostly in Mendoza, but also in Salta (high-altitude vineyards) and Patagonia (known for fresher, more elegant styles).



Is Argentine Malbec always red?

No. Today, you can also find White Malbec, Malbec Rosé, and even sparkling Malbecs. Argentine Malbec continues to evolve, challenging expectations and winning over wine lovers around the world.