What are the best Argentine red wines?
Here you are in Argentina, the most Italian of South American countries. It is no coincidence that the country of tango and Malbec is the fifth largest wine producer in the world!
Thanks to the presence of the Andes and ocean currents, Argentina boasts some of the highest vineyards in the world, in some cases over 2,000 metres, which produce red wines of great freshness.
In fact, the finest and most balanced red wines come from regions where the temperature range is less severe, such as the Tupungato valley. However, if we are talking about the Argentine region to take as a reference point in the country, it is undoubtedly the Mendoza area, where wine was already being produced before the country's wine boom at the end of the 19th century. Mendoza alone accounts for 70% of Argentina's total wine production, especially reds. Other important areas for reds are Jujuy and Catamarca.
The most important Argentine red wines and their characteristics
The first grape variety that comes to mind is undoubtedly Malbec, right?
Well, we have good news: Argentina offers much more than its flagship wine. Let's take a look at the main types of Argentine reds:
-Malbec: as we said, this is the symbolic grape variety, producing full-bodied, spicy nectars of incredible value from Mendoza.
-Cabernet Sauvignon: from cool regions, it produces structured reds with aromas of forest and undergrowth.
-Bonarda: a grape variety brought by Italian migrants in the early 20th century, vigorous and intensely fruity, it has found a second home in the Andes. Perfect with grilled meat.
-Merlot: soft and silky versions from grapes grown at high altitudes in the Andes.
-Tempranillo: the top wines come from the Cafayate plateau, spicy reds of great complexity.
-Blends of red grape varieties: innovative blends of grape varieties that enhance unique terroirs. It is impossible not to mention Masi's highly successful experiment, Corbec, a blend of Venetian Corvina and Argentine Malbec!
What to pair with the best Argentine red wines?
These are New World wines with a strong character, so we recommend pairing them with red meats, especially grilled, and flavourful cheeses.
