Malbec vs Shiraz: Explore the differences between Malbec and Shiraz. Learn about their origins, flavors, and best pairings to enhance your wine experience. Perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Wine might seem a bit intimidating with its rich history and complex flavors, but ultimately, it's all about enjoyment. Whether it's a relaxed evening at home or a fancy outing to a wine farm, we've discovered that wine tasting is all about the experience – and having a great time with great people!
Malbec and Shiraz are both red wines that we particularly enjoy. They each have a fascinating history and a unique flavor profile. Malbec, a purple grape variety with roots in the Bordeaux region of France, really found its place in Argentina in the 1990s.
This red wine is cherished for its rich, black fruit flavor and its deep purple hue. Shiraz, another French variety from the Rhône Valley, has found fame in Australia. Both wines offer distinct flavors and experiences that cater to different palates.
Jump to:
- Why You Will Love These Wines
- Primary Flavors found in Malbec vs Shiraz
- Malbec vs Shiraz - Wine Characteristics
- Malbec vs Shiraz Wine Serving Tips
- Where are Malbec and Shiraz Grapes Grown
- Best Food Pairings with Malbec and Shiraz
- Other Great Food Pairings with Malbec and Shiraz
- Malbec vs Shiraz. Why Choose One Over the Other?
- FAQs
- More Wine Pairings and Wine Articles
Why You Will Love These Wines
Malbec
- Malbec is a delightful, full-bodied red wine that's smooth, juicy, and jammy with a lovely chocolaty finish.
- It's really affordable, with some great wine available in the $10–$20 range.
- It's a perfect choice for a budget-friendly yet high-quality red wine.
- Wine enthusiasts love it at the dinner table and for sipping.
Shiraz
- Shiraz is such a wonderful wine! It has a rich, concentrated flavor of black fruit with a spicy black pepper finish.
- It is a bold dry red wine with a velvety texture that's perfect for pairing with equally flavorful dishes.
- Think of enjoying it with some delicious spicy salami, or flavorful spicy Asian food, strong cheeses, or even truffles are also excellent food pairings with Shiraz.
- This fantastic red is not your everyday wine - it's perfect for special occasions and should always be enjoyed with a great meal.
- The price of wines can vary, but you can find a really good Shiraz in the $30 to $50 range.
Primary Flavors found in Malbec vs Shiraz
Malbec
- Malbec grapes grown in the warmer climates of Argentina and South Africa have dark fruit flavors found in blackberry and plum.
- In the cooler climates of the Cahors region, France, and New Zealand it has lighter fruity flavors found in black cherry and raspberry.
- Vanilla and tobacco flavors might also be present in aged Malbec wines.
Shiraz
- Shiraz grapes grown in the warmer climates of Australia and South Africa have dark fruit flavors found in black plum, blackberry, black cherry, and blueberry.
- Milk chocolate with secondary spice flavors is also present.
- When grown in the cooler climate of France this popular red wine has fruit notes found in black currant, dragon fruit, and blackberry.
- Cooler climate Shiraz wine has bolder spice flavors and more earthy notes.
Malbec vs Shiraz - Wine Characteristics
Malbec
- Profile: Malbec is a dry wine.
- Body: It is a full-bodied red wine.
- Tannins: Malbec has medium tannins.
- Acidity: It has mild acidity.
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 13.5% to 15%, making it one of the higher alcohol wines.
Shiraz
- Profile: Shiraz is a dry wine.
- Body: It is a full-bodied wine.
- Tannins: Shiraz has moderate to high tannins.
- Acidity: It has medium acidity.
- Alcohol: The alcohol content ranges from 13.5% to 15%, making it one of the higher alcohol wines.
Malbec vs Shiraz Wine Serving Tips
Malbec
- Temperature: Serve at 60 – 68°F / 15 – 20°C.
- Decanting: Decant aged Malbecs for 30 minutes.
- Glass type: Red wine glass.
Shiraz
- Temperature: Serve at 60 – 68°F / 15 – 20°C.
- Decanting: All Shiraz wines should ideally be decanted for at least 1 hour as breathing softens the high tannins.
- Glass type: Red wine glass.
Where are Malbec and Shiraz Grapes Grown
Malbec
- Argentina: Malbec from Argentina is primarily grown in the Mendoza Valley.
- France: In France, Malbec is notably produced in the Cahors region.
- United States: In the United States, Malbec is cultivated in Washington State.
- South Africa: Malbec is also grown in the Western Cape region of South Africa.
Shiraz
- Australia: Shiraz from Australia is grown in the Barossa Valley.
- France: In France Shiraz grapes are grown in the Rhône Valley.
- United States: In the United States Shiraz is primarily grown in California.
- South Africa: Shiraz grapes are cultivated in the Western Cape region of South Africa.
Best Food Pairings with Malbec and Shiraz
Malbec
- This full-bodied red wine is traditionally paired with Leaner Red Meat like Ostrich, Game, and Beef Filet.
- It also pairs well with Blue Cheese, such as Gorgonzola.
Shiraz
- The flavor profile of Shiraz wine lends itself to be paired with Spicy Food like Chinese 5 Spice Pork Roast and Indian Tandoori Meat.
- Avoid serving bland food with this bold red wine at all costs.
Other Great Food Pairings with Malbec and Shiraz
Malbec
- We have enjoyed Malbec with Charcuterie and even Roasted Pork Belly on several occasions
- Duck Breast and Cherry Sauce for a special occasion is wonderful served with Malbec.
- Unlike most dry red wines Malbec pairs well with poultry dishes like Spicy Chicken Wings and Coq au Vin.
- Macaroni and Cheese or Aubergine Parmesan is a great choice with this red wine.
- Next time you have Chocolate Ice Cream for dessert try a wine pairing with Malbec. Desserts are usually paired with sweet wine. However, this was an unexpected and rather delicious food-pairing adventure.
Warmer Climate Shiraz
- You need not save your Shiraz wine for lavish dishes only. Shiraz is the perfect wine to serve with Pizza with Spicy Salami. A Beef Burger with Jalapeno is also a particular favorite.
- Strong cheeses such as Aged Cheddar, Gruyere, or Parmigiano-Reggiano are a great choice with Shiraz.
- A grilled juicy cut of Steak with a Black Pepper Rub is especially enjoyable with a glass or two of warmer climate Shiraz.
- Chicken Tikka Masala is a highly recommended food pairing with this bold red wine.
Cooler Climate Shiraz
- Next time you have Porcini Mushroom Risotto or Truffle Omelet, try pairing it with a Shiraz from the Rhône Valley in France. A perfect pairing.
- We especially enjoyed Stuffed Quail Wrapped in Bacon, paired with a cooler climate Shiraz.
Malbec vs Shiraz. Why Choose One Over the Other?
Malbec
With its smooth fruity flavors, Malbec doesn't necessarily need food to be enjoyed. Sip a glass of Malbec by the fire or enjoy as a sundowner.
Shiraz
Shiraz is widely enjoyed and well-regarded by many. It is a huge hit with wine lovers all over the world. This bold, full-bodied wine is a perfect choice for special occasions or as a special gift for a friend who is a red wine connoisseur.
FAQs
Malbec
A : Look for wines from reputable regions like Mendoza, Argentina, or the Cahors region, France. Check for vintage years known for good weather. A good Malbec should have a deep purple color and a fruity aroma.
A : Yes, especially higher-quality Argentinian Malbecs, which can age well for between 5 and 10 years. This allows for more complex flavors to develop
A : Malbec is generally more full-bodied with darker fruit flavors. It tends to be spicier and more robust, with higher tannins.
Merlot tends to be smoother and more medium-bodied with a plummy taste. It has a leathery and smoky flavor, not present in Malbec.
A : Yes, Malbec is one of the six varieties allowed to be used in Bordeaux blends. The other varieties used in this blend include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and occasionally Carménère grapes.
Malbec is often blended with just Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
A : The name "Malbec" is derived from the French word for black, reflecting its deep, dark color.
Shiraz
A : They are the same grape variety but named differently based on the region: Shiraz in Australia and Syrah in France.
A : Yes, Syrah is often blended with Grenache and Mourvèdre in Rhône blends.
Shiraz is also successfully blended with Cabernet Sauvignon.
A : Absolutely, Shiraz can age beautifully for 10-20 years, developing complex flavors over time.
A : Cooler climate Shiraz is more aromatic with higher acidity and spice notes. Warmer climate Shiraz is richer and fruitier.
A : Shiraz wines are known for their bold, fruity taste. They often feature aromas of lush blackberry and notes of dark fruits like black plum. Peppery and spicy undertones are also present. Compared to Malbec, Shiraz tends to be more robust and spicier, making it a crowd-pleaser.
A : To choose a good Shiraz, look for reputable wine regions such as the Barossa Valley in Australia or the Rhône Valley in France. Check for a balanced blend of fruitiness and spice, indicating a well-made wine.
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If you're a wine lover, you can't go wrong with Malbec and Shiraz. Malbec is smooth, easy-drinking, and perfect for any occasion, while Shiraz offers a bold, full-bodied experience ideal for special moments or dinner pairings. Whether you're cozying up with a glass of Malbec by the fire or sharing a Shiraz with friends, these wines are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Cheers!
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