Wines of Argentina
Argentina is a linear country boasting a vast variety of soils and micro-climates that support a range of grapes and wine styles. These include red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines.
Viniculture in Argentina dates back to the 16th century when Spanish missionaries cultivated grapes for religious services. The country’s winemaking industry has gone through many highs and lows since then but found a place on the international wine map at the turn of the 21st century with high-quality Malbec.
Most vineyards are found at the foot of the Andes mountains in the west of the country. Around 75% of the country’s vineyards and are located in Mendoza, a region spreading along the foothills of the Andes and on the plains below. This area is the red wine capital of Argentina. Malbec is the star grape with styles ranging from elegant wines with high acidity crafted from high-altitude vines to rich, fruity, good-value reds from vineyards located further down the mountain slopes.
Other stand-out black grape varieties include Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.
White grapes include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillón, Viognier, and the indigenous Torrontés. This variety grows all over Argentina but thrives in the elevated vineyards La Cafayate, Salta in the north of the country where it’s made into highly-esteemed fragrant fruity and floral wines.