It's important to know that Argentina produces some amazing Malbec, but Malbec isn't the only Argentine wine worth exploring. Wine producers are making some unique versions of international grapes (especially Bordeaux and Piedmontese varietals, even unique ones like Bonarda) in the foothills of the Andes. Argentinian wine isn't just about red wine either; white wine drinkers can enjoy crisp Torrontés and Chardonnay with zippy acidity. They even have a vineyard that is deemed "the most studied vineyard in the world." Winemaker Nicolás Catena Zapata of Bodega Catena Zapata planted Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes at 5,000 feet above sea level on the "Adrianna vineyard" in Gualtallary in the Mendoza region, and these high-altitude wines are stunning.
What are the best Argentinian wines?
The popularity of Argentinian Malbec, especially from Catena Zapata, was so strong that the winemakers of France stopped uprooting the Malbec in Cahors and made more varietal Malbec wines instead. Argentinian Malbecs are full-bodied with medium plus tannins and rich, dark fruit. All across Lujan de Cuyo and the Uco Valley, winemakers are planting French grape varieties and treating them with the utmost respect. Their wine industry has been on a journey from producing table wines for mass-international consumption to terroir-focused high-quality wines that capture the essence of a given appellation.
What are the best wine regions in Argentina?
If you are new to Argentinian wine or to South American wine in general, then you are in for a surprise. There are appellations and sub-regions to explore from Patagonia to Mendoza along the spine of the Andes Mountains, which divides the country from Chile. You can find Malbec everywhere, but there are also delicate Pinot Noirs, Merlots, Cabernet Francs, Syrahs, and Tempranillos to try. The influence of European viticulture is deeply felt. Argentina's wines and winemaking has improved over the decades, and every vintage seems to get better and better.
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