Argentina
Where Altitude Defines Wine
Select a region to explore
The Big Picture
Argentina
Stretching along the eastern foothills of the Andes, Argentina demonstrates how altitude can transform a warm, arid landscape into one capable of producing remarkably fresh and balanced wines. As vineyards climb higher, cooler temperatures, intense sunlight and wide diurnal ranges create wines of concentration, purity and vibrant acidity.
Climate & Viticulture
- A dry continental climate, created by the Andean rain shadow, with low rainfall and low disease pressure that favour sustainable and organic viticulture.
- Irrigation is essential, drawing on Andean snowmelt and underground aquifers, with drip systems increasingly replacing traditional flood irrigation.
- Warm, sunny days and cool mountain nights preserve acidity while ensuring reliable ripening.
- Summer hail and the hot, dry Zonda wind remain the principal climatic hazards.
- Signature varieties include Malbec and Torrontés.
Altitude-cooled Mendoza and the far-northern heights of Salta → latitude-cooled Patagonia in the far south.