1st August 2024 | Cork Talk | 5 minute read
Malbec vs Merlot is our hot topic of the day. Whilst being two separate grape varieties, they are often compared to each other, but why is that? They both have their own charm and can share many similarities, however, many factors can affect this such as region, blends and vintages.
We tackle the juicy questions including what sets them apart, and which is better, Malbec or Merlot?
Whilst these partners in wine share more than a first letter, they hold a fair share of differences too. They both share France as their country of origin, but Malbec made its way to Argentina in 1853 and became the most widely grown grape which we know it for today. Merlot stayed famed within France, particularly Bordeaux, but it can also be found all around the world.
While both are fruity yet dry, their flavour profiles do differ from each other. Expect flavours of plum, blackberry, vanilla and cocoa from Malbec and a heavier mouthfeel from the tannins. Merlot is lighter in body with flavours of cherry, plum, blueberry and chocolate giving the wine a juicier flavour profile. Depending on where the grapes are grown, you could find a Malbec that might mirror the juiciness of a Merlot, but opt for one from a warmer climate and that’s where you’ll get the spicier, earthier Malbec.
When pairing Malbec with food, stick to juicy red meats as well as fragrant cheeses. Merlot can be paired with some seafood such as salmon, prawns, tuna or scallops. Add in some cured meats for a match made in heaven.
A Malbec from its roots in France, growing in the famous limestone and clay soils located in the foothills of the Pyrenees. While Argentine Malbec has become the face of Malbec, don’t forget about French parcels. This wine starts with violet and blackcurrant on the nose which is followed by a supple primary sweet-fruited palate resulting in a moreish finish. Unlike most Malbec’s, this one is more medium-bodied, allowing the fruit-forward notes to really shine here.
Try putting a bottle of this in the fridge for 30 minutes for a chilled glass of jammy red wine.
This pure Malbec pairs perfectly with grilled and griddled meats, where the glossy sweet fruit and juicy tannins come into their own.
“Enjoyable wine, nice & smooth.” – David ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A bottle to treat yourself with, and what a treat it is. Rated a very respectable 4.7 out of 5 by our customers, there’s no question as to why. This Malbec blend comes from the most refined of the Bosca range and for good reason. This full-bodied tipple encompasses all the hallmarks of a fine wine: structure, complexity and finesse. You can expect cassis and smoky wood with a very intense and robust structure. Everything you would come to expect from a tasty Argentine Malbec you will find here, with a touch of classic European structure.
Although you could open it as soon as it arrives, try setting it down for a couple of years to really allow those tertiary flavours to develop in the bottle.
Pair it with steak cooked in rosemary butter with roasted peppers. Although meat is the obvious choice, it would also hold up nicely against fragrant cheese such as Manchego or cheddar.
“By far the nicest wine I’ve tasted to date. Every mouthful was a pleasure.” – George ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of our best rated Malbecs and for good reason. With over 500 five star reviews, this wine is the true pick of the bunch. It’s a deep, spicy take on a traditional Malbec, with the Carménère blend lending some spice. The overall wine is ripe and round with plenty of fruit flavours still there, a perfect balance between the two grapes. Expect a long, balanced finish bursting with bold flavours.
Try pairing this beauty with a Sirloin steak, pork or lamb. Or for a vegetarian option, try mushroom risotto with plenty of sautéed spinach.
“Phenomenal wine – balanced and fresh, tasted like a luxury, silky, rambunctious wine!” – Kerri ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Merlot from the famed region of Bordeaux-Saint-Émilion which is known for producing some of the most expressive and concentrated wines in the world. From a Grand Cru Château, you wouldn’t expect anything but the best and that’s exactly what you get with this. It’s led by acidity with damson, red currants, liquorice and oak all working together to create what is a moment to savour with every sip.
Pair with a hearty roast to complement the intricate flavour profile. It’s classic meets complex.
“I loved this wine for our wine Wednesdays/cheese and bread night. Easy to drink quickly, great flavours. Highly recommend.” – Stephanie ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A true classic in our collection and one of our all-time customer favourites. The plum and red-berry fruit lends itself to create a bright and juicy Merlot brimming with fruit boldness. With notes of blackberry and vanilla, this merlot is perfectly ripe, smooth and has a lovely, delicate, spiced edge. Being from Australia, it has plenty of red-fruit flavours, easy-drinking tannins and a soft finish. A generally crowd-pleasing red.
Whilst this wine holds up great by itself, try pairing it with cuts of roast pork for a match made in heaven.
“It’s a family favourite, like most of the Black Pig range, just lovely to quaff.” – Tom ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Located on a hillside, the Château Toiurnebrise vineyard is situated on clay-gravel soils and creates some of the best wines of the Lalande de Pomerol. Aged for 12 months before being released, in both stainless steel and older oak barrels for that elegant oak flavour, you can expect flavours of baking spices and gently charred oak as well as some menthol. The wine has primary flavours of red cherry, ripe plum and blackcurrant. It’s also certified sustainable which gives it added feel-good factor.
Pair this with slow roasted meats such as rolled shoulder of pork, and seasonal vegetables.
“Ripe Merlot grapes offer a beautiful elegance to this wine. It is racy. Nice length, good balance and lots of harmony.” – Emeric Petit, Winemaker.
Malbec vs Merlot, what’s the answer? Like most things in the world of wine, there is no definite answer. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal taste. For me, whilst I wouldn’t turn down a glass of either I tend to prefer Malbec, but that is just because I love a tannic, full-bodied wine and Merlot is a bit too light for that. That being said, if a menu is offering Merlot and not Malbec, I wouldn’t think twice about it. Which is your favourite?
