Varieties
Argentina’s leading “National Variety” is Malbec followed by the rapidly emerging Torrontes. However, the Argentinean terroir treats excellently as well, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay.
Experimentation gone GOOD! Lately, the restless Argentinean wine makers experimented with Tempranillo, Bonarda, Pinot Gris, Viogrnier, Chenin Blanc and more, achieving exquisite results and offering a surprising rich wine catalog. Lucky us!
The grape was historically a major planting in Bordeaux, providing color, tannins and fruit to the blends. The severe 1956 frost wiped out most of Malbec’s plantations in France. In Argentina it was brought by the French agronomist Miguel Pouget in mid 19th century. Most of these vines were pulled out to make space for jug wine based on local varieties, Criolla Grande and Cereza. At the late 20th it was rediscovered and produced the first 100% Malbecs.
What we got? Medium acidity, velvet tannins, deep inky purple color, fruit flavors of blackberry, plum and black cherry. The nuanced flavors offer milk chocolate, cocoa powder, violet flowers, leather and, depending on the amount of oak aging, a sweet tobacco finish.
Moral: Argentina saved Malbec!
Malbec’s
little nice story
Torrontes
the Argentina’s exclusive white
Argentina’s white is a result of crossing Criolla Chica from Spain and Muscat of Alexandria of eastern Mediterranean terrains. This crossing created a delightfully aromatic wine, with notes of peach and apricot enhanced by touches of honey and sweet herbs. Though the flavors veer sweet, the wine’s crisp acidity makes it refreshing and food-friendly while also easily drinkable solo.
Hebe’s duty: Return this Argentina’s exclusive white back in Europe! We’ve got endless proposals on how to combine it with the Mediterranean nutrition!