Rise of Washington Malbec

Malbec is becoming a much more important wine grape in Washington. The red Bordeaux variety is gaining momentum each year. (Photo by Andy Perdue/Great Northwest Wine)

One of the most exciting developments in Washington wine country is the rise of Malbec.

The minor Bordeaux variety – long relegated to a blending role both in the Old and New worlds – has come on strong the past decade and, in particular, the last five years.

Today, it’s not difficult to find dozens upon dozens of examples of Washington Malbec bottlings, with a handful of wineries now specializing in the red wine.

Washington Malbec can be a tantalizing wine, thanks to its dark purple color, rich acidity, moderate tannins and dense, dark flavors of blackberry, plum, blueberry, dark chocolate and black pepper.

Of course, Malbec has long been the signature grape of Argentina, and many wine experts now believe the best examples from Washington are right up there with the top Mendoza examples.

Here are a dozen delicious examples of Washington Malbec that we’ve tasted recently. Ask for them at your favorite wine merchant or contact the wineries directly.

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