Argentina has a few famous exports – Maradona, Messi and most importantly Malbec – says Katie Gardner of Birmingham Wine School

Over the past few decades, Argentina has transformed its wine industry from one primarily focused on domestic consumption to an internationally recognised producer of high-quality wines. Central to this evolution is the Malbec grape, which has become synonymous with Argentine wine. But the story of Argentine winemaking goes beyond just Malbec. With a variety of other grapes like Torrontés, Pinot Noir, and Bonarda, Argentina offers a diverse wine landscape that reflects its rich terroirs and innovative winemaking spirit.

Malbec, originally from France, particularly the Cahors region, found a new lease on life in Argentina. While it struggled in France due to its sensitivity to frost and pests, Malbec thrived in Argentina’s high-altitude vineyards. Brought to Argentina by European emigrants in the mid-19th century, Malbec has since become the country’s flagship grape. The dry, sunny climate of Argentina, especially in Mendoza, allows Malbec to ripen fully, developing its characteristic dark, ripe fruit flavours, smooth velvety tannins, and spicy finish.

MAJESTIC BACKDROP

Mendoza is undoubtedly the heart of Argentina’s wine industry, producing nearly 70 per cent of the country’s wine. It provides ideal growing conditions for the Malbec grape. The backdrop of the majestic Andes mountains provides high altitude and wide temperature fluctuations between day and night. This helps to retain freshness and develop complex flavours in the grapes.
If you’re a real Malbec lover, you should look out for Mendoza’s sub-regions, such as Luján de Cuyo, Tupungato and the Uco Valley, as each offer unique microclimates that contribute to the diverse expressions of Argentine Malbec. In Tupungato, for example, higher altitudes and cooler temperatures lead to wines with more freshness and floral notes, while in Luján de Cuyo, Malbecs are often richer and more full-bodied.

In the UK, Malbec has surged in popularity over the last decade. British consumers have embraced Argentine Malbec for its bold flavours and versatility, which make it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of foods. A classic pairing is with Argentine steak, where the robust structure of Malbec complements the rich, savoury flavours of the meat. However, it also pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, hard cheeses, and even chocolate desserts with sweeter styles. While Malbec might be the star internationally, Argentina’s wine repertoire is diverse. The country boasts a range of climates and terroirs, allowing for the cultivation of various grape varieties.

SIGNATURE VARIETY

Torrontés is Argentina’s signature white grape variety, and it offers a refreshing contrast to the bold reds the country is known for. Grown primarily in the high-altitude vineyards of the Cafayate Valley in the Salta region (up to 3,000 metres above sea level!), Torrontés thrives in the warm, sunny days and cool nights. This grape is known for its aromatic profile, often drawing comparisons to Sauvignon Blanc or Gewürztraminer, with floral and fruity notes such as rose petals, jasmine, and citrus.

Torrontés is often enjoyed on its own as a light, aromatic wine, perfect for sipping on a warm day. It also pairs well with spicy foods, making it an excellent match for dishes like Thai curry or spicy Mexican cuisine, where its crisp acidity and fruity flavours can stand up to bold spices.

In the cooler climate of Patagonia, particularly in the regions of Neuquén and Río Negro, Pinot Noir has found a comfortable home and is well worth seeking out. Patagonia’s cooler temperatures and long growing season allow Pinot Noir grapes to develop slowly, leading to wines with great balance, bright acidity, and a complex flavour profile that includes red berries, earth, and subtle spices. It pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted chicken, mushroom risotto or even salmon.

Bonarda, originally from Italy, is Argentina’s second most widely planted red grape after Malbec. It is primarily grown in Mendoza and San Juan. For a long time, Bonarda was used mainly in blends, but it is now gaining appreciation as a varietal wine. Argentine Bonarda is characterised by its deep colour, medium body, and flavours of red fruits, herbs, and sometimes a hint of spice. It’s an incredibly versatile wine that pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It’s excellent with pasta in tomato sauce, pizza, or grilled sausages.

KATIE’S 4 ARGENTINE CORKERS

Trivento Golden Reserve Malbec – £16 from Sainsbury’s
From one of the top sub-regions in Mendoza, Lujan de Cuyo, this step up from the standard Trivento is well worth the extra pounds. It is aged for 12 months in oak barrels giving the wine a distinctive spicy character.

Tesco Finest Torrontes – £8.50 from Tesco
A great-value way to taste something different from Argentina, this is a crisp and zingy dry white with flavours of lychee, orange peel and citrus.

Pasarisa Patagonia Pinot Noir – £12.99 from allaboutwine.co.uk
A delicate, floral Pinot Noir with soft cherries and strawberries on the nose but plenty of body from ageing in French oak.

Santa Julia Reserve Valle de Uco Bonarda – £10.99 from Waitrose
Lighter and fresher in style than Malbec with flavours of black cherry and soft tannins.