Tango with Argentine Wine: Regions, Vineyards, and Must Try Wines

Argentina, the land of tango and beef is also a dream destination for any wine enthusiast. With stunning landscapes and vineyards nestled against the backdrop of the Andes mountains, Argentina has quickly risen to prominence as a top wine-producing country. Let’s embark on a vinicultural journey, exploring the country’s main wine regions, the must-visit wineries, and, of course, their unforgettable wines.

Mendoza: The Heart of Argentine Wine

Mendoza, situated at the foothills of the Andes, is the epicenter of Argentine wine production, boasting over 75% of the country’s vineyards. It’s here where you’ll find the famed Malbec, an absolute must-try.

• Bodega Catena Zapata: Renowned for its high-altitude vineyards and exceptional Malbecs, a visit to Catena Zapata is a must. Don’t miss their Adrianna Vineyard Malbec, a wine that dances gracefully between power and elegance.
• Bodega Achaval-Ferrer: Another Mendoza gem, Achaval-Ferrer’s Finca Altamira Malbec is a sophisticated blend of dark fruit, spice, and minerality that will leave you yearning for more.
• Bodega Chakana: Situated in Agrelo, Mendoza, Chakana’s Estate Selection Malbec is a vibrant and complex wine that marries power with finesse.
• Bodega Norton: A historic winery, just south of Mendoza city in Luján de Cuyo, Norton’s Gernot Langes Swarovski wine — named after its owner — is a compelling blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, representing the pinnacle of the estate’s production.
• Bodega Vistalba: Vistalba’s Corte A is a classic Luján de Cuyo wine, marrying Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Bonarda into a rich, powerful blend with a dash of elegance.
• Zuccardi Valle de Uco: The Uco Valley, a high-altitude region within Mendoza, has been gaining international recognition for its exceptional terroir and the high-quality wines it produces. Known for its innovative approach, Zuccardi’s Finca Piedra Infinita Malbec is a groundbreaking wine that perfectly captures the Uco Valley’s minerality and intensity.
• Bodega Salentein: Also hailing from Uco Valley, try their Single Vineyard San Pablo Malbec, which showcases the unique characteristics of its high-altitude vineyard with a balance of power and elegance.
• Trapiche: Just southeast of Mendoza city, Maipú is one of Argentina’s most traditional wine regions, known for its robust Malbecs and Bonardas. Here you will find Trapiche, one of Argentina’s oldest wineries. Trapiche’s Medalla Malbec is a classic representation of Maipú, with its intense dark fruit flavors and robust structure.
• Familia Zuccardi: Yes, Zuccardi gets around. This time in Maipú, don’t miss their Emma Zuccardi Bonarda, a fresh and vibrant wine that showcases the potential of this often-overlooked grape.

Salta: A High-Altitude Adventure

In the rugged northwest of Argentina lies Salta, home to some of the highest vineyards in the world. Here, the shining star is Torrontés, a white grape variety producing aromatic and refreshing wines.

• Bodega Colomé: At dizzying heights, Colomé’s vineyards yield exceptional wines. Their Estate Torrontés is a delightful explosion of floral and citrus notes, perfect for a warm day.
• Bodega El Esteco: Located in Cafayate, the heart of Salta’s wine region, El Esteco produces a range of excellent wines. Their Old Vines Torrontés offers a complex and elegant interpretation of this Argentine classic.
• Bodega Domingo Hermanos: A family-run winery, their Cafayate Torrontés is a vibrant and fresh wine, with a delightful balance of fruit and acidity.

Patagonia: The Cool Climate Gem

Patagonia, a cooler climate region in the south of Argentina, is gaining recognition for its superb Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.

• Bodega Chacra: A visit to Chacra is a treat for any Pinot Noir lover (and one of my favorites!). The Barda Pinot Noir is a seductive dance of red fruit, earthiness, and subtle spice that will enchant your palate.
• Bodega Humberto Canale: Río Negro, in the northern part of Patagonia, showcases this century-old winery that produces a stunning Old Vineyard Merlot, filled with ripe red fruit, velvety tannins, and a touch of spice.
• Bodega Noemía de Patagonia: Also hailing from Río Negro, Noemía’s J. Alberto is an expressive and concentrated Malbec, showcasing the potential of Patagonian wines to harness this staple fruit.
• Bodega Del Fin Del Mundo: Located in Neuquén, in northern Patagonia, Bodega Del Fin Del Mundo is aptly named “winery at the end of the world.” It produces a range of excellent wines, including their Reserva Pinot Noir which is a delightful combination of ripe red fruit, earthiness, and subtle spice.
• Bodega Familia Schroeder: Also in Neuquén, Bodega Familia Schroeder is known for their dinosaur fossil finds and exceptional wines. Don’t miss their Saurus Select Chardonnay, a delightfully fresh and balanced wine, with flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus, accompanied by a touch of oak.

San Juan: The Underdog Region

Just north of Mendoza, San Juan offers a diverse array of wine styles, including Syrah and Bonarda.

• Bodegas Graffigna: Founded in 1870, Graffigna is a historic winery producing a wide range of varietals. Their Centenario Reserve Syrah is a peppery, dark-fruited wine that adds a dash of excitement to any meal.
• Bodega Merced del Estero: This family-run winery crafts a Bonarda Reserva that combines ripe red fruit, sweet spices, and a touch of oak, resulting in an incredibly smooth and pleasing wine.
• Bodega El Esteco: El Esteco’s Altimus is a complex blend of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tannat, resulting in a full-bodied, layered wine.

La Rioja: The Birthplace of Argentine Wine

Although less-known on the international stage, La Rioja (Argentina, not Spain!) is the oldest wine-producing region in Argentina. Here, the focus is on indigenous varieties like Criolla Grande and Torrontés Riojano.

• Bodegas La Guarda: This family-owned winery is committed to showcasing the potential of La Rioja’s native grapes. Their Guarda Special Selection Torrontés Riojano is a bright, floral, and fruity wine, perfect for sipping al fresco.
• Bodega Valle de la Puerta: Known for its biodynamic farming practices, Valle de la Puerta crafts a range of unique wines. The Altos La Ciénaga Criolla Grande is a light, easy-drinking red with bright red fruit flavors and a hint of spice.

Córdoba: The Rising Star

Córdoba, a lesser-known wine region nestled in the Sierras de Córdoba, is beginning to make a name for itself with its fresh, high-altitude wines.

• Bodega La Caroyense: Established in 1930, La Caroyense produces delightful sparkling wines from Chenin Blanc and Ugni Blanc. Their Extra Brut is a lively and refreshing bubble bath for your taste buds.
• Bodega Terra Camiare: This boutique winery is known for its small-batch production and attention to detail. Don’t miss their Malbec, a delightful expression of this iconic Argentine grape with notes of black fruit, violet, and a touch of earthiness.

Catamarca: The Wild Northwest

Catamarca, located in Argentina’s northwestern region, is an emerging wine region known for its Malbec and Syrah.

• Bodega San Huberto: Try their Roble Malbec, a well-structured wine with rich dark fruit flavors and a hint of spice and oak.
• Bodega Aguijón de Abeja: Their Syrah is a hearty and robust wine, with notes of dark berries, pepper, and a touch of smoke, mirroring the wild beauty of the region.

La Pampa: The Pioneering Plains

La Pampa, located in the heart of Argentina, is a pioneering region known for its unique combination of varietals.

• Bodega del Desierto: This winery offers a range of unique wines. Their Desierto Pampa Pinot Noir is a fresh and balanced wine, showcasing the potential of this grape in Argentina’s central region.
• Bodega Estepa: Estepa’s Chardonnay is a revelation, with bright notes of apple, pear, and a touch of oak that create a well-rounded and refreshing wine.

Okay, that was a mouthful! As you can see, Argentine wines are more than Mendoza and much more than Malbec (although both are still spectacular!). They are as diverse and captivating as the country itself. No matter where you find yourself, be it the rugged landscapes of Salta, the cool climates of Patagonia, or exploring the underdogs in San Juan, a glass of Argentine wine will take you on a vinicultural adventure. So, whether you’re an avid wine enthusiast or a curious explorer, it’s time to pack your bags, raise your glass, and say “Salud!” to the enchanting wines of Argentina. Happy Hunting!