Artisan Malbec Australia

Women are redefining Argentina’s wine industry, leading some of the country’s most iconic wineries onto the world stage. From the Pescarmona sisters at Lagarde, to Lucía Romero at El Porvenir de Cafayate, and Claudia Piedrahita at Casarena, these women are driving innovation, honoring tradition, and proudly bringing Argentine Malbec to Australia.

Malbec World Day (#MWD) is back, celebrating Argentina’s iconic grape and its incredible journey from a single variety to a world of diverse styles. Since its launch in 2011, MWD has become a global movement, showcasing how #Malbec represents not just Argentina’s wine industry but its culture, passion, and innovation. From high-altitude vineyards to bold new expressions, Malbec continues to evolve—just like the people who love it.

This year’s theme, "Your Malbec", is all about making Malbec your own—whether it's a bold red with a steak, a light and fresh style for summer, or even a Malbec cocktail 🍹 The possibilities are endless! Argentina’s winemakers are pushing the boundaries, crafting elegant, terroir-driven wines that reflect the country’s rich landscapes and traditions.
However you enjoy it, there’s a Malbec for everyone.

In an exclusive interview, Portelli explained why Argentina adopted Malbec as its signature grape, allowing its unique potential to shine. He believes Chile will surprise next with exceptional Malbec wines.

However, Portelli insists Argentinian Malbec is unmatched in strength and complexity. "The Argentinian Malbec underwent a thorough development process from modest beginnings to become our flagship wine, resulting in unparalleled quality," he stated.

For consumers new to Malbec, Portelli recommends embracing it as a taste of Argentina's culture and identity. "Malbec reflects our tango, landscapes, and love for grilled meats," he explained. "It's a versatile wine that pairs beautifully with charred meats."

With Portelli championing Argentinian Malbec worldwide, wine enthusiasts can discover the distinctive characteristics of this celebrated varietal.

The northwestern Argentine province of Salta is a hidden gem for world-class wines. While renowned for its signature Torrontés whites, Salta also excels with full-bodied, spicy Malbecs from some of the highest vineyards on Earth.Salta's prime viticultural zones span 1,600 to over 3,000 metres above sea level, providing perfect growing conditions with an arid, desert-like climate and low rainfall. Iconic subregions like Cafayate have viticulture roots dating back to the 18th century Jesuit missionaries.

At these high elevations, Salta's Malbecs take on an intense, deeply colored profile brimming with ripe red fruits, violets and dark chocolate notes. Two standout examples are the voluptuous Altimus blend from Bodega El Esteco and the plush, mineral-tinged Domingo Molina Malbec.While lesser-known, Salta's high-altitude Malbecs offer a unique sense of terroir distinct from their counterparts in Mendoza and Patagonia. For Malbec enthusiasts, these concentrated yet fresh reds from the roof of Argentina are worth seeking out.