Argentina's wine: from cultivation to the glass

Argentine wine has established itself as one of the best wines in the world. But there is a long story behind every glass of Argentine wine - starting with the careful selection of grapes and ending with the winemaking process in the country's wineries. In this article, we want to take a look at wine production in Argentina throw to understand what makes Argentine wine so special!

History of argentine wine

Compared to other countries, such as Italy and France, viticulture in Argentina is still very young.

The history of Argentine wine dates back to the arrival of European settlers in the late 16th century. The Spanish conquistadors brought with them the first vines and began cultivating wine in the coastal regions along the Río de la Plata. However, cultivation was only possible due to the preliminary work of the Inca successful. They had previously designed an ingenious irrigation system. 

In the following years, wine production spread in the country, but due to political and economic circumstances, production stagnated during the 19th century.

It was not until the beginning of the 20th century that wine production resumed in Argentina and the country became an important wine producing region.

In the 1990s, there was once again a Quality revolution. Previously, the wine was mass produced and cheap. This changed with the advent of soft drinks and beer. 

In the following decades, the wine industry was modernized and expanded. Thus, the Argentine wine acquired the current status of a noble drop of top quality!

Today Argentina is the seventh largest Wine producing country in the world.

Wine regions in Argentina

To the main Argentina's wine-growing regions:

1. Mendoza - Mendoza is the most famous and largest wine region in Argentina and the world. Over 75% of Argentina's wine is produced here. The calcareous soils are not only low in acidity, but the dry and hot climate with plenty of sun gives the Malbec wines from this region an exceptional quality.

2. San Juan - San Juan is the second largest wine-growing region in Argentina. The vineyards are located at an altitude of 600 to 1400 meters above sea level. San Juan is home to the light red grape varieties.

3. La Rioja - La Rioja is located in western Argentina and is known for its Torrontes and Syrah. The region has a long tradition of winemaking and is known for its natural reservoirs and survival strategies in times of drought.

4. Salta - Salta is one of the highest wine growing areas the world and is located in the Andes in the northern region of Argentina. Torrontes is the main grape grown here, but Cabernet and Malbec are also found in this wine region.

5. Rio Negro - Rio Negro is close to Patagonia and is one of the southernmost wine regions in the world. It is known for its Pinot Noir and Merlot wines.

In total, there are over 220,000 hectares of vineyards in Argentina and each region has its own characteristics, wines and culture.

Grape varieties in Argentina

Argentina is known for its diversity of varieties and produces a variety of red, white and sparkling wines.

Here are some of the most famous Grape varieties in Argentina:

1. Malbec - Malbec is undoubtedly one of the most popular and well-known grape varieties in Argentina and has its origins in France. It is now grown mainly in Mendoza and offers wines of full-bodied richness and powerful character.

Taste: aromas of black fruits, chocolate and spices

2. Cabernet Sauvignon - Cabernet Sauvignon is another popular grape variety that does well in Argentina and is often blended with Malbec. The wines are robust and full-bodied.

Taste: aromas of blackcurrant, chocolate and pepper

3. Bonarda - Bonarda is one of the most planted grape varieties in Argentina, but less known outside the country. The wines are usually fruity and soft.

Taste: aromas of red fruits, spices and tobacco

4. Torrontes - Torrontes is a typical Argentine grape variety grown mainly in the northwestern wine regions of the country, such as Salta and Cafayate. This white wine is characterized by a unique character.

Taste: floral and fruity aromas, often with notes of peach and apricot.

5. Chardonnay - Chardonnay is known worldwide and thrives well in the cooler wine regions of Argentina. The wines are full-bodied and creamy.

Taste: Aromas of tropical fruit, vanilla and oak.

In addition to these wines, Argentina also produces many other well-known and lesser-known grape varieties, including Syrah, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier.

Wine tourism

Argentina offers a wide range of activities to all wine lovers. Here are some of the most important information about wine tourism in Argentina:

1. Wine routes and visits - Most wine regions in Argentina offer special wine routes and tours where you can visit the wineries and participate in wine tastings. Here you also have the chance to learn more about the production process! Some of the famous wine routes are Route 40 in Mendoza and the Cafayate Wine Route in Salta.

2. Wineries and accommodation - In Argentina you can visit some of the most beautiful wineries that offer traditional architecture and spectacular landscapes. Many of the wineries also offer accommodation.

3. Festivals and events - Many wine-growing regions in Argentina host festivals and events throughout the year where you can experience the best of Argentina's wine culture. For example the National Wine Festival in Mendoza, which takes place every year in March.

4. Culinary - In addition to wine tastings, there are also wine tours followed by lunch. Many of these tours offer a culinary experience where local food such as empanadas or asado (grilled meat) is served along with the wines.  

Argentina wine

Discover the fascinating world of Argentine wine! Whether you are a wine lover or just want to discover a new destination, Argentina offers a variety of fine wines and breathtaking landscapes that will stay with you forever. Experience the unique culture of winemaking in Argentina and enjoy the hospitality of the local people. Book now your Trip to Argentina with TripLegend and experience for yourself why Argentine wine enjoys a unique reputation worldwide!

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