The happy emigrant

You know that old adage about a prophet and his homeland? Well, in the world of grapes, the Malbec is living proof that a stint abroad can improve your reputation and street cred, like a happy expatriate.

This lovely dark purple grape is one of six varietals allowed for use in Bordeaux blends. In its native France, especially in the southwest, it is mixed with Merlot and other red varieties to produce the region's signature vintages.

Malbec is the name it is known by in Bordeaux, but it is also called Auxerrois, Ct Noir or Pressac depending on the region. There are arguments that some of these are actually hybrids or close relatives but if it says Malbec on the label, let it rest.