In Search Of South African Malbec Wines: Doolhof Single Vineyard 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:

Doolhof Wine Estate (Wellington)

Doolhof Single Vineyard Malbec

Jasmijn Maritz, the Marketing Manager, introduced me to their 2015 Single Vineyard Malbec

Doolhof 2015 Single Vineyard Malbec
Intense dark purple with black cherry, a hint of eucalytus and mint and to the fore with fynbos and a touch of sandal wood. The palate shows freshness and youth with juicy fruit, good structure and soft, well integrated tannins.