Argentina is known for its Malbec. This grape, of French (Bordeaux) heritage has found its “home” in Argentina, where it has thrived and gained true international recognition and acclaim. Wine Gurus from all over the world have praised Argentine Malbec as the best of its kind, including Robert Parker Jr. who has been quoted as saying that Malbec is soon to be accepted as one of the great wines of the world thanks to the expression this grape has produced in various regions of Argentina.

Apart from Malbec, Argentina also produces some very interesting and high quality Cabernet Sauvignons. Blends are the next area of interest, from the staple “Mendoza style blend” of Cabernet/Malbec/Merlot to various Bordeaux inspired blends, there are styles and price ranges to suit everybody. One promising grape that is showing promise is Bonarda. This lesser known grape is identified with Italy, but has always been widely produced in Argentina.

In the white wines department, Torrontes is the white varietal somewhat equivalent of Malbec. Under this name, its related almost exclusively to Argentina. A textbook Torrontes will appear floral (almost sweet) to the nose, but should be bone-dry once you taste it. Apart from Torrontes, most of the best Chardonnay grapes in the country are used for the production of sparkling wines. Some higher end cuvees are made following a strict Champenoise methodology, and are a very pleasant surprise to those that have never tasted sparklers from Argentina.

Argentina also produces some very interesting Shiraz (known here as Syrah), Merlot, Cabernet Franc (some very old vines make some superb high-end CFs), and blends thereof. The elusive (& difficult to grow) Pinot Noir is also grown, although high quality examples of this varietal are not easy to find.