It’s all the rage in the wine world to talk about wines of origin and the trendiest of terroirs are those from high-mountain locations. I hate to put a damper on anyone’s opinion of the mountain wines of France, Italy and California, but consider mountain fruit that comes from Argentina. An average vineyard in that country sits at 5,000 feet; there are some at more than 10,000 feet.
Courtesy Wines of Argentina
Another trend is the love of Malbec. Everybody loves Malbec. Seriously, do you know a single person — wine snob or rookie — who doesn’t enjoy a rich, gutsy, blackberry-infused, tooth-staining glass of this vino? Argentina is also from where these yummy wines come.
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“Affordability is key. You can still get a tasty Malbec for less than $15
and spectacular versions for not much more.”
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There are good reasons our South American friends are renowned for these crowd pleasers and here are the Top 5:
- The tango. (OK, the tango has nothing to do with wine, but you have to admit it is damn sexy.) Actually, the long days of sunshine deliver an abundance of photons to create the grape ripeness that provides the delicious and complex flavors we treasure in Malbec.
- The cold mountain air that nightly rushes down from the Andes and cools the high-elevation plateaus on the eastern slopes where the vineyards lie refreshes the grapes and helps them maintain their acidity and verve.
- The plentiful water flows of snowmelt from the mighty mountains allow grape growers to consistently nurture the vines.
- Handsome gauchos ride the high plains raising cattle that provide copious quantities of meat for beef-obsessed Argentineans. This love is expressed through traditional barbecue. Grills everywhere are filled with seasoned steaks and sausages that are served with magnificent Malbecs. For many, this creates one of the highest expressions of the food/wine marriage.
- Affordability is key. You can still get a tasty Malbec for less than $15 and spectacular versions for not much more.
Courtesy Bevmo
Malbec is not all that Argentina does well when it comes to wine. Another signature wine is Torrontés, a floral energetic white that is wonderful with seafood and salads or lovely as a solo act on a warm, summer day. Again, the price point for these beauties is available for even less than Malbecs.
Lastly, Argentina also specializes in reds from the Bonarda grape. These are less available but worth seeking out for their unique, spicy, plum flavors and summer-friendly freshness.
Reliable versions of Malbec and Torrontés are widely available from the Alamos brand. For Bonarda and other offerings of Malbec and Torrontés, visit one of our great local wine shops or restaurants and ask for a recommendation.
