Wine production in Argentina dates back to the 16th century.  Today it is the fifth largest wine producing country in the world.  The main regions for quality wine are Mendoza followed by San Juan-both located at the foothills of the Andes mountains along Argentina’s western border.  The air is fresh and clean and at 4,900 feet elevation, it is among the highest in the world. Luján de Cuyo, in Mendoza, produces some of the country’s finest wines and is the country’s first official designated region for quality.  In general, the vineyards are dry-especially in the summer- and most require irrigation.  Unlike the U.S. and most of Europe, Argentina’s vines are un-grafted, i.e. they are still planted on their original rootstocks. The main grapes today are Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah for the reds, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Torrontés (an indigenous varietal) for the whites.

Regions

• La Rioja
• Mendoza