Washington Malbec growth continues

Malbec not only is a fast-rising star in Washington wine country, but it also is becoming a global phenomenon.

The French red variety is not only a big player in Argentina, but also in South Africa, Australia and some areas of California, particularly the arid Central Valley.

In Washington, Malbec plantings are ramping up, particularly in the Horse Heaven Hills, where plantings have doubled to more than 200 acres in the past half-decade. In the Walla Walla Valley, it’s the No. 5 variety with 131 acres. On warm Red Mountain, Malbec makes up 3 percent of the plantings with more than 70 acres.

Here a dozen examples of Northwest Malbecs we’ve tasted in recent months. Ask for them at your favorite wine merchant or contact the winery directly.