Malbec grapes can be sensitive, particularly in wet climates or heavy frosts. It has travelled the world in search of ideal growing conditions. To mature, it needs more sunshine than more typically French grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.

The largest plantings of Malbec vines in the world are found in Argentina. In general, Malbec is synonymous with Argentina, particularly the region around Mendoza. The Malbec grape was introduced to Argentina in the mid 19th century. Provincial governor Domingo Faustino Sarmiento engaged the French agronomist Michel Pouget to bring grapevine cuttings - including Malbec - from France to Argentina.

Malbec suited the climate and quickly became established as a mainstay of Argentinian winemaking. In the 20th century a shaky economy meant Malbec plantations were ripped up to make way for cheaper ‘jug wine’ varieties. Malbec vines were replaced with more fashionable varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon.

Towards the end of the century the Malbec grape underwent a renaissance. Growers searched for better quality and more distinctive wines to suit developing domestic and export markets. Malbec is particularly well suited to the local climate. Its potential to produce high quality wines with a distinctively Argentinian twist (is that like the Tango?) was seized upon.

The rest, as they say, is history. Malbec has found a natural home in an area with warm sunny days and cooler nights. Today it is the most widely planted grape variety in Argentina and accounts for around 75% of production. There are also smaller, but expanding, areas of production in Chile, the USA, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand (where it is usually grown for blending).