While Mendoza is often the first name that comes to mind when discussing Argentinian wine, the country’s diverse viticultural landscape extends far beyond this renowned region. Argentina’s wine industry is spread across several distinct regions, each offering unique characteristics and contributing to the richness of the nation’s wine culture.
Salta, in the far north, is home to some of the highest vineyards in the world, with altitudes reaching up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level. This extreme elevation results in wines with striking concentration and intensity. The region is particularly famous for its Torrontés, a white varietal that produces aromatic wines with bright acidity and flavors of citrus, peach, and floral notes. Salta’s reds, especially Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, also benefit from the high altitude, which preserves acidity and enhances the depth of flavor.
To the south of Mendoza lies Patagonia, a region known for its cooler climate and a growing reputation for producing elegant wines. The lower temperatures here compared to Mendoza allow for a slower ripening process, which is ideal for Pinot Noir, a varietal that thrives in cooler conditions. Patagonian wines, including Malbec and Merlot, are often described as more restrained and refined, with a distinct freshness and minerality that sets them apart from the more opulent styles of Mendoza.
Further east, in the province of San Juan, the focus shifts to robust, sun-drenched reds and expressive Syrahs. San Juan’s hotter and drier climate, along with its varied altitudes, allows for a range of styles, from bold and ripe to surprisingly nuanced and complex. The region is also a significant producer of Pedro Giménez, a white grape that is less known internationally but is widely planted in Argentina.
Each of these regions, along with emerging areas like La Rioja and Catamarca, contributes to the diversity of Argentinian wine, offering wine lovers a broad spectrum of flavors and styles to explore. As more winemakers push the boundaries of what can be achieved in these varied climates and soils, Argentina continues to solidify its position as one of the world’s most exciting and diverse wine-producing countries.
