Malbec

noun

Mal·​bec ˈmal-ˌbek  ˈmäl- 

variants or less commonly malbec

plural Malbecs also malbecs

: a full-bodied red wine that is known for its dark red color and tannic structure and that is notably produced in Bordeaux, southwest France, Argentina, and California

also : the grape itself

Examples of Malbec in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Mendoza, Argentina, stands as the nation's premier wine region, responsible for 66% of its output, largely driven by high-altitude Malbec. — Brad Japhe, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Their 50-acre estate in the center of Rutherford is home to Bordeaux varieties, including the Malbec used to make this sophisticated rosé, which proffers a nose of raspberry, clementine, and freesia. — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 19 June 2026

Catena Zapata’s Catena Alta Malbec, from a winery founded in Mendoza in 1902, remains one of the most convincing arguments for Argentine wine as a luxury category rather than merely a steakhouse staple. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 10 June 2026

These vintners grow 43 wine grape varieties, with the most common being Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot and Sangiovese. — City News Service, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 May 2026

The longtime model wore Esber’s Orion dress in a shade of Malbec. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 27 May 2026

Which Argentine Malbec is your favorite to pair with a rib eye? — Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 16 May 2026

Mendoza, near the Andes Mountains, enjoys approximately 300 sunny days per year and produces much of the country’s famous Malbec wine. — Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 14 May 2026

Excursions into the mountains and wine tasting in the Uco Valley—which is the area Malbec lovers are most eager to visit—take about 1-2 hours to reach by car. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from French, of uncertain origin

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above