Malbec

Plantings of Malbec have leapt from 19 hectares in 1994 to 168. The total hectares planted in this old Bordeaux variety may not seem significant but its importance is the influence that Malbec has on Bordeaux style reds. It is a variety that suits New Zealand‘s cooler climate although it is susceptible to rot in humid climates. It ripens early and shows little signs of herbaceous characters even in poorer years. It is renowned for its deep colour and ripe, fruity characters that can be very attractive. In New Zealand it is used mainly as a blender but there are some straight varietals that are worth a second look. Varietal characteristics: Dense inky red colours; plum, olives, pepper; spice; brambles, liquorice, leather, prune, rhubarb, nutty