Argentina began producing wine in the days of colonization, at first focusing on large-scale production rather than high quality bottles. However, since the 1990s, the country has undergone something of a wine revolution, investing large sums of money in high-tech vineyards that have become internationally renowned. These days, the magnificent wineries of Mendoza and Salta are at the level of the best, offering top quality wine at very low prices.
Malbec
Argentina’s most beloved and famous grape, Malbec is the flagship red of the local industry. While other countries have moved away from Malbec in recent years, Mendoza’s ideal climate has seen production soar to become one of the most widely planted varieties in the country. Argentine Malbecs tend to have robust tannins and tend to range from light, fruity colors to more elegant dark inky colors.
Torrontés
Torrontés is to white wines what Malbec is to reds, the undisputed king of the Argentine industry. These grapes are harvested by hand and fermented at low temperatures to produce a floral aroma with the perfect balance of acidity and mineral tones. It is pleasant to the palate and is the perfect complement to spicy foods. The grape is exclusive to Argentina, and most grows in the Cafayate region at high altitude, although some can be found in Mendoza.
Cabernet Franc
Originally from Bordeaux in France and now popular in Argentina, Cabernet Franc is a full-bodied red that has attracted a lot of attention in recent years. The grape is quite similar to Cabernet Sauvignon, although a little lighter, resulting in a paler wine. Argentine Cabernet Franc is more intense than others found around the world, a quality that has earned it great popularity. Grapes are expensive to produce, which is reflected in the price, but worth it for those special occasions.
Petit Verdot
Traditionally used as part of the classic Bordeaux blend, Petit Verdot has a tendency to ripen too early and has therefore lost its appeal to European winemakers. In Argentina, however, grapes ripen much more reliably, which has led to large-scale production of a single grape variety, mainly in the Mendoza region. It seems to get strong opinions, some love it while others hate it, the only way to find out is to try it for yourself.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Readers who have made it this far down the list will no doubt have heard of Cabernet Sauvignon, one of the world’s best-known varieties, second only to Merlot in international consumption. In the Mendoza region, serious efforts have been made to produce it well enough to compete with Malbec, but most people agree that they have not succeeded and that Malbec still reigns supreme. Having said that, there are some excellent labels out there.
Bornada
Bornada has been one of the most popular reds in Argentina since winemaking began in colonial times. This long-standing classic is produced in the Mendoza region and is mainly used in table wines and blends. Some vineyards, however, have managed to produce a sweet and tasty varietal.
Semillon
Formerly the country’s most popular white, semillón has lost some of its luster in recent decades, largely thanks to the rise in popularity of torrontés. This underrated variety produces excellent dry or sweet table wines, but little else. A few Argentine vineyards have attempted to regain its former status as one of the country’s staple whites, with some success.
