Malbec grapevines for sale

Malbec Grapevine | Grow, Care & Planting Guide

Malbec is a deeply colored red grape variety known for producing bold, fruit-driven wines with plush texture and approachable tannins. Though traditionally used as a blending grape in Bordeaux, it is now widely recognized for its success as a single-varietal wine, particularly in high-altitude vineyards. The variety is valued for its rich fruit expression, structure, and ability to reflect site characteristics.

  • Originated in southwestern France
  • Ripening Period: Mid season
  • Moderate vigor
  • Moderate yield
Availability

Preferred Climate

Malbec performs best in a warm, sunny climate with low humidity and a long growing season. It thrives in regions with significant diurnal temperature variation, where warm days promote ripeness and cool nights help preserve acidity and color intensity.

Growth Characteristics

Malbec produces medium to large clusters of medium-sized berries with relatively thick skins, contributing to intense color and moderate tannin levels. The vine exhibits moderate vigor and requires well-drained soils to prevent excessive vegetative growth. It buds early, making it susceptible to spring frost, and can be sensitive to coulure under poor flowering conditions. In suitable climates, particularly at higher elevations, Malbec achieves excellent phenolic ripeness while retaining freshness and structural balance.

How to Plant & Care for Malbec Grapevines

  • Pre-irrigate soil 24 hours before planting
  • Acclimate the grapevine to site temperature before planting
  • Remove any plastic pot before planting a green potted grapevine
  • Plant the vine so the graft union is ~6 inches above the soil line
  • Install a plant protector over the vine
  • Irrigate based on soil type and site conditions
  • View our planting guides for in-depth instructions
Green Potted Vine Planting GuideDormant Bareroot Vine Planting Guide

Wine Profile

Malbec wines are typically full-bodied with moderate to high tannins and moderate acidity. Aromatically, they express dark fruit such as blackberry, plum, and black cherry, often accompanied by notes of violet, cocoa, and spice. On the palate, the wines are rich and smooth, with a velvety texture and concentrated fruit character. Oak aging can add layers of vanilla, mocha, and smoke, enhancing complexity and structure. Well-made examples offer both immediate approachability and aging potential.

Clones

  • FPS 9 - Equivalent to French clone 180. Moderate to high vigor, moderate yield. Medium cluster size. Rich in tannin.
  • FPS 11 - Equivalent to French clone 46. Moderate to high vigor, moderate yield. Medium cluster size.
  • FPS 22 - Medium cluster size.