It may come as a surprise to discover that Argentina is the fifth largest wine producing nation in the world.  Until only a decade or two ago, nearly all Argentine wines were consumed locally – Argentineans at one time consumed 90 liters of wine per capita annually.  But today, they drink only half as much wine, and Argentinean wine producers have turned their attention export markets.  To compete with other global producers, some Argentine wineries have focused sharply on quality, producing wines that have gained favor with connoisseurs all over the world.

Geography and Climate
 
The ecology of the Andes mountain chain defines the character of the wines of Argentina.  Most of the country is arid, but the “rain shadow” of the Andes provides sufficient water for agriculture.  The generally warm climate supports viniculture from the far north of Argentina – where the vineyards lie at the same latitude as Morocco – to the south, which is roughly at the same latitude as New Zealand.  Vineyards are mostly planted at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,000 feet to exploit cooler temperatures.

Grape Varieties
 
Argentina has a tradition of growing Spanish and Italian grape varieties like Tempranillo, Bonarda and Barbera that make wonderfully juicy berry and cherry-fruited reds.  In recent years, in line with international tastes, Argentine growers have planted plenty of Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon.  But two grape varieties in particular seem especially well-suited to growing conditions in Argentina.

The Torrontés grape makes terrifically fragrant, perfumed, yet rich and fruity white wines with crisp acidity and plenty of body. Malbec is a red variety that can produce wines with excellent structure.  While some other wine regions (like Cahors in France) also employ Malbec, Argentinian Malbecs are considered by many the best in the world, with powerful, smooth deeply-fruited inky black wines full of spice and character.

Wine Regions

Mendoza

This is Argentina's powerhouse and center of quality, accounting for over 80% of the country’s total production (and over half of the entire wine production of South America). One of Mendoza’s oldest and best-known wineries is Norton, founded in 1895 and now owned by the Swarovski Crystal family, which produces exceptional wines at affordable prices.       

Salta

Located in the extreme north of Argentina, the Salta region produces some high quality Cabernets Sauvignons and Torrontes - especially in the Cafayate sub-region.

Rio Negro

The Rio Negro region lies at the southern end of Argentina’s wine producing areas, in the fringes of Patagonia. Rio Negro is noted for cool-climate varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, and also high quality sparkling wines, some of which are made in association with top French Champagne houses.

San Juan and La Rioja

The San Juan and La Rioja regions produce primarily table wines for local consumption.