In Search Of South African Malbec Wines: Hillcrest Single Vineyard Selection Malbec

Malbec is now so popular; the grape has its own holiday. International Malbec Day, which is also known as #MalbecWorldDay and its celebrated every April 17.

Malbec grapes originated in France and play a big role in the wine production of Argentina. The flavours and aromas of wines made from Malbec grapes include blackberry, cherry, plums, and chocolate. Other characteristics of Malbec wines include inky-black colouring, soft or high tannins, and high acidity.

Malbec wines aren't as popular as wines made from other red grape varieties, but their popularity is growing as wine drinkers seek out new and different wine experiences.

Malbec is also cultivated in South Africa. Although most of the wine makers use it in a blend or a Bordeaux-style blend, there are also wine estates that make a 100% malbec..

With Malbec World Day in mind, WineTourismZA went Malbec-hunting in the Cape Winelands and found the following vineyards that produce Malbec wine:

Hillcrest Wine Estate (Durbanville)

Hillcrest Single Vineyard Selection Malbec

Tasting Room Manager, Elize Bothma, introduced me to their 2015 Single Vineyard Selection Malbec.

The Hillcrest Single Vineyard Selection Malbec has a deep purple red / violet colour with characteristic dark fruit and cinnamon aromas. Full bodied with noticeable plum, mulberry and blackberry fruit flavours. Smooth and ripe in the mouth with soft round tannins.