Wines of Argentina

History of wines from Argentina

The history of Argentine wines dates back to the early colonial period in the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors introduced the first vines for religious ceremonies. Father Juan Cedrón planted the inaugural cuttings in 1556, marking the genesis of a viticultural tradition. Jesuit missionaries brought vine cuttings mainly from Spain’s Canary Islands, which bred native varieties, leading to the Criolla grape family dominating Argentine viticulture for over three centuries.

In the 19th century, European immigration transformed the industry. Italian, Spanish, and French settlers introduced new winemaking techniques and established the first industrial wineries. Michel Aimé Pouget, a French agricultural engineer, introduced French grape varieties, including Malbec, which became iconic in Argentine wine production. This period saw the transition from Criolla dominance to the diversification of Argentina’s vine gene pool.

The modern Argentine wine industry took shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The completion of the Transandine Railway in 1885 facilitated wine exports, and by the mid-20th century, Argentina had over 250,000 acres of vines planted, with Malbec being a significant variety. The industry faced challenges, including overproduction crises, but the 1990s saw a resurgence with the introduction of modern technology and a focus on high-quality Malbec exports.

Terroir of Argentina

Argentina's terroir is characterized by its diverse geography, which includes wide valleys, sloping plains, and high-altitude vineyards. The country's wine regions, particularly Mendoza, are situated at the foot of the Andes Mountains, where the rain shadow effect creates a dry climate with intense sunlight and cool nights. This unique combination fosters grapes with concentrated flavors and balanced acidity, particularly in high-altitude vineyards that reach over 3,000 feet above sea level.

Beyond Mendoza, other regions like Salta and Patagonia offer distinct terroirs. Salta's vineyards, located at dizzying altitudes, produce aromatic white wines like Torrontés with floral aromas and crisp acidity. Patagonia's vineyards benefit from the Atlantic Ocean's cooling influence, resulting in elegant Pinot Noir and vibrant Sauvignon Blanc. Each region's terroir contributes to a wide range of wine styles, showcasing Argentina's rich viticultural diversity and unique expressions of place.

Top grapes in Argentina