As the world’s 5th largest wine producer in 2020, Argentina is the leading wine producer in South America.
The first vines in Argentina were planted in the 16th century, following the arrival of the Spanish settlers in South America.
In 2021, the vines planted area represents 215,000 ha., which makes Argentina the 7th largest vineyard in the world.
The wine-growing territory enjoys many advantages thanks to the Andes Cordillera. The soil, the climate, the southern exposure thanks to the very steep slopes and the oases are among the great riches of the country.
The altitude is the most remarkable feature, since it is the highest in the world! It is in Cafayate, in the province of Salta, that we find a vineyard perched on the roof of the world, nestled at more than 3000 meters.
These high altitudes, and the climatic diversity for which they are responsible, allow local winegrowers to grow their grapes, and this despite the strong heat experienced in the country, due to the proximity to the Equator.
The vineyard essentially extends over three main regions:
– The Center-West region (Cuyo) which includes Mendoza and San Juan
– The North region including Catamarca, Salta, Tucuman and Jujuy
– The South region (Patagonia – Atlantic region) with Rio Negro, Neuquen, Bueno Aires and La Pampa
The signature grape varieties are Malbec and Bonarda for the red wines and the very aromatic Torrontès for the white wines.
Also today, Argentina is among the only countries in the world to produce wines from “Creole” grape varieties, such as “Criolla”.
