You might have called it Cot, Auxerrois, Cote Rouge, Jacobain, Pied Rouge, or Cahors. In fact, it was was such a favored wine that it earned numerous names. During the medieval age, Malbec was known as the black wine of Cahors, where it drew wide appeal for its inky color and bold taste. This thin-skinned, dark purple-black grape is native to southwestern France, where it has been a local favorite for centuries. Malbec Around the Worldīefore delving into the best way to pair Malbec with food, it’s important to know a bit of history about this wine. The right pairing with Malbec delights the senses, leaving you eager to explore other combinations with this fantastic varietal. This big, bold wine is expressive and delicious, and it makes an ideal candidate for both cellar aging and dinner pairing. The best wines offer aging potential and take meals to another level.