Malbec is one of the traditional "Bordeaux varietals" typically used for blending with Cabernet Sauvignon. The grape tends to have characteristics that fall somewhere between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Malbec is an early ripener that typically yields soft wines of low acidity, moderate tannins, fruity flavors and good ageability. A midseason ripener, it can bring very deep color, ample tannin, and a particular plum-like flavor component to add complexity to claret blends.

Also known in much of France as Cot, this Bordeaux blender shares many of the characteristics of Merlot. It is an early ripener that typically yields soft wines of low acidity, moderate tannins, fruity flavors and good ageability. It is a varietal that performs well in the least fertile, high altitude and rugged terrain as is the case in the Cahors region of France, where it produces intensely colored, concentrated "black wine". California has been home to limited plantings since before prohibition, with most of the production dedicated to Meritage blends. Bottled as a varietal, Malbec invokes the great country wines of France.

St. Colleen's Malbec has firm tannins but is not overly harsh on the palate. This wine was fermented in small vats and punched down by hand. A total of 18 months in French and American oak barrels rounded out flavors and added complexity.  St. Colleen Malbec is dense and velvety, with distinguishing aromas of violet, bing cherry and blueberry and a sweet oak finish. Drink upon release or cellar for up to five years.

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Last modified: 04/10/08