In Search Of South African Malbec Wines: Plaisir De Merle 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:

Plaisir De Merle Wine Estate (Franschhoek)

Plaisir De Merle Malbec

Cemelia Van Schoor at the wine tasting room introduced me to their 2015 Malbec.

Plaisir de Merle Malbec: Spice and cherries on the nose. Red berry fruit on the palate with a creamy oak finish. Soft tannins ensure drinkability.

Do some winery exploring in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley with the Franschhoek Wine Tram . The Purple Line Tour stops at the following wine estates: Boschendal, Vrede en Lust, Noble Hill, Babylonstoren, Plaisir de Merle, Allée Bleue and Solms-Delta.