This is probably the question we get asked the most and the one I could go on about the longest. This question is normally asked by people who haven’t been to Argentina and to be honest is hard to explain without putting you on a plane. But, I’ll have a go anyway…
Firstly, on a personal note, I have too many amazing memories from my time living in Argentina so am completely biased. The usual suspects are partly to blame in creating these memories, Vibrant nightlife, focus on arts and culture, people, football, and the best ever food and wine match, asado and malbec.
However in an attempt to remove bias, on a purely technical note, Argentina has a lot of factors leading to the amazing wines you will find on these pages.
Most Aussies are surprised to hear but Argentina has long and rich history of producing some of the best vino in the world. In fact they are the worlds 5th largest producer of wine and consume an average of over 30 litres a year per capita. Just Mendoza alone produces more wine than the whole of Australia.
Although probably considered new world in terms of wine, Argentina is highly, influenced by the old world with a population consisting of 85% Italian, Spanish and French heritage. In fact Argentina’s famous Malbec is actually a French grape. Brought to Argentina by Pouget in 1853 from Bordeaux, Malbec flourished in Argentina’s high altitudes. Luckily the pest phylloxera which savaged the vines of France has so far not made it to Argentina and hence Argentina is blessed with some of the oldest plants around.
This, combined with horticultural advantages of essentially a high altitude desert. With long sunny days and cool nights it provides the perfect growing climate. The long growing season and big swings in night and daytime temperatures allow excellent colour and tannin development. The high altitude also means most vineyard pests can’t survive so most vineyards are essentially organic without the need for nasty pesticides. Being a desert means low rainfall minimising the threat of mold whilst the melting snow from the magestic Andes supply not only an amazing backdrop to the vines of Mendoza, but an ample supply of fresh water.
What does all that mean? Well with naturally amazing grapes, and a long and rish wine heritage Argenitna are making some of the most amazing wines in the world. But, I still suggest you jump on a plane and check it out for yourself. Or just grab a bottle, pour yourself a glass and dream…