Argentinian Wines

Argentinan Wine Regions

Mendoza

The City of Mendoza is situated in the foothills of the Andes and is renowned for it's production of olive oil and Argentinian wines.  Most quality wines come from the high altitude regions of Lujan de Cuyo and Uco Valley.  Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bonarda, Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc are all grape varieties that thrive in the semi arid/continental climate of Mendoza.

Salta/Cafayate

Cafayate is a wine producing region in North-West Argentina. Located in the Province of Salta.  Possibly the highest altitude wine producing region in the world (3000 metres above sea level) and perfect for the production of super fresh Torrontes and Malbec.

Patagonia

Patagonia is South America's southernmost wine producing region.  Stretching 300 kilometres along the Rio Negro and Nequen rivers.  The desert region with a cool, dry climate is best suited to producing slightly more elegant styles of Argentina wines and is emerging as a fantastic area for Pinot Noir. 

Exploring the Rich World of Argentinian Wines

Argentina, a country known for its passion for football and its diverse landscapes, is also home to some of the most distinctive and flavorful wines in the world. With a winemaking history that stretches back over four centuries, Argentina has become one of the top wine-producing nations globally, offering a range of wines that reflect its unique terroirs, climates, and culture. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of Argentinian wines—exploring its iconic grape varieties, the regions where they thrive, and what makes these wines stand out on the global stage.

A Brief History of Argentinian Wine

The roots of Argentinian winemaking date back to the 16th century when Spanish colonists brought vines to the New World. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that winemaking truly flourished in Argentina, with European immigrants, particularly from Italy and France, bringing their expertise and refining the local wine industry. By the mid-20th century, Argentina was already gaining recognition for producing high-quality wines.

The country’s commitment to quality over quantity has become increasingly evident in recent years, with a focus on modern winemaking techniques and sustainable practices.

Argentina’s Wine Regions: A Diverse Landscape

Argentina's wine-growing regions are as diverse as the country itself. From the high-altitude vineyards of the Andes to the arid, sun-drenched plains, each region offers unique conditions that influence the flavor profiles of its wines.

: Argentina’s most famous wine region, Mendoza is home to the country’s best-known wines. Situated at the foot of the Andes, the region boasts some of the highest vineyards in the world, with altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 feet (750 to 1,500 meters) above sea level. The climate here is dry and sunny, with cool nights that help preserve acidity in the grapes. Mendoza is the epicenter of Malbec production, but it also excels in producing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and white varieties like Chardonnay and Torrontés.

: Located in the southernmost part of Argentina, Patagonia is a cooler region, with a more temperate climate than Mendoza. The area is gaining international recognition for its elegant Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Chardonnay wines. The contrast between the cool climate and long sunshine hours results in wines with bright acidity, fresh fruit flavors, and complex structures.

: One of the highest wine-growing regions in the world, Salta’s vineyards are perched at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet (3,050 meters) above sea level. The combination of altitude, sunlight, and cooler temperatures helps preserve the fruit’s freshness while developing rich, intense flavors. Malbec and Torrontés are the region’s standout varieties, but the region also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah.

: Located just north of Mendoza, San Juan is known for its hot climate and large-scale production of red wines. While Malbec is also grown here, the region is especially well-suited to Syrah, Bonarda, and Tempranillo. The wines are often characterized by ripe fruit flavors and bold tannins.

: This region, not to be confused with Spain’s La Rioja, produces some of the country’s most distinctive wines. La Rioja’s Mediterranean climate, combined with its diverse soil types, results in wines with a deep, rich flavor profile. The region is known for its Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, along with a few indigenous varieties like the white grape Torrontés Riojano.

Key Grape Varieties: Malbec and Beyond

Malbec: The pride of Argentina, Malbec is the country's flagship grape. Although originally from France, it is in Argentina where the variety has found its true home. Malbec wines from Argentina are typically characterized by deep, dark fruit flavors—think blackberries, plums, and cherries—along with velvety tannins, a full body, and a smoky finish. The grape’s popularity has skyrocketed globally, thanks to Argentina's ability to consistently produce wines of exceptional quality at various price points.

: This uniquely Argentinian grape variety is known for its aromatic, floral qualities. Torrontés wines often feature notes of jasmine, rose, and citrus, with a refreshing acidity that makes them perfect as a refreshing summer drink or an accompaniment to seafood and light dishes. The grape thrives in high-altitude regions like Salta, where it produces intensely fragrant wines.

: While relatively new to international markets, Bonarda is gaining a reputation as a rising star in Argentina’s red wine offerings. Known for its juicy fruit flavors and smooth tannins, Bonarda is often compared to the Italian grape variety, Barbera. Its versatility allows it to pair well with a wide range of dishes, from grilled meats to pasta with tomato-based sauces.

: Although Malbec may be Argentina's flagship red, Cabernet Sauvignon is also widely planted and produces wines that are structured and age-worthy. Typically, Cabernet Sauvignon from Mendoza tends to be bold with ripe black fruit flavors, firm tannins, and a long finish. These wines pair excellently with grilled meats and hearty dishes.

: Argentina's warm, sunny climate creates the ideal conditions for Syrah, which thrives particularly well in regions like Mendoza and San Juan. Syrah wines from Argentina tend to have ripe, spicy flavors with notes of pepper, blackberry, and sometimes a touch of chocolate. They are full-bodied wines with strong tannins, making them a great match for barbecued meats.