Argentine wine and sparkling varieties perfect for Christmas and New Year toasts
Argentina is a land of unique wines, where the diversity of climates and terroirs gives rise to countless grape varieties that amaze the whole world.
Here we present the Argentine varieties that are perfect to pair with classic holiday table flavours and toast the New Year. You can also plan a complete wine tourism experience in any of the wine regions of Argentina and let yourself be surprised by their diversity.
During the holiday season, there is nothing better than celebrating with national labels that reflect the identity of each region, from exuberant high-altitude varietals to the singular freshness of southern wines.
1. Malbec – The Argentine icon for festive meats
Malbec is synonymous with Argentina: intense, aromatic and balanced. Its notes of plums, dark fruits and gentle spices make it an ideal wine for typical year-end main courses.
Ideal pairing:
- Asado
- Ojo de bife roasted in the oven
- Grilled matambre
- Beef empanadas
2. Cabernet Sauvignon – For dishes with intense flavours
With firm structure and present tannins, Argentine Cabernet Sauvignon is perfect for those who seek more concentrated, robust wines. With notes of green bell pepper, ripe red fruits and spices, it pairs very well with traditional preparations for this time of year.
Ideal pairing:
- Roast lechón (roast suckling pig)
- Spiced turkey
- Hard cheeses
3. Bonarda – The fresh, versatile all-rounder
Argentine Bonarda is an approachable grape, with marked red-fruit notes, ideal to accompany a meal from appetisers all the way to main dishes. It adapts very well to the variety of preparations that are served in the centre of the table to share during the holidays, typical of the southern-hemisphere summer.
Ideal pairing:
- Vitel toné
- Russian salad
- Cold chicken or stuffed pionono roll
4. Torrontés – Argentina’s quintessential white queen
Aromatic, floral and fresh, Torrontés—originally from north-western Argentina— is perfect for cold, light dishes and preparations with citrus notes, including desserts. Its personality makes it ideal for warm countries that celebrate with lighter meals.
Ideal pairing:
- Festive salads with fruit
- Fresh fish
- Platters of blue and semi-soft cheeses
5. Chardonnay – Elegance for starters and dishes with light, delicate sauces
In Argentina, Chardonnay shines both in its young versions and in barrel-aged expressions. It is an ideal grape to accompany white meats and delicate sauces. There are also many styles that pair beautifully with a classic Argentine asado for those who prefer white wine.
Ideal pairing:
- Sole or hake with mild sauces
- Festive tarts (vegetable, corn)
- Savoury pionono
6. Argentine sparkling wines – The must-have for the toast
Argentina produces outstanding sparkling wines, crafted in regions such as Mendoza, Patagonia and Córdoba. Brut Nature, Extra Brut and Sweet styles all have a guaranteed place in year-end toasts.
Ideal pairing:
- Pan dulce
- Budín and garrapiñadas (candied nuts)
- Fresh fruit
- Light starters and seafood in the case of Brut Nature
You can also enjoy wine tourism experiences by travelling along different wine routes in Argentina.
7. Malbec rosés – Freshness for the summer table
Argentine rosés, especially those made from Malbec, are vibrant, fruity and very refreshing. They are perfect for warm climates and very versatile when it comes to pairing.
Ideal pairing:
- Salads with chicken or seafood
- Typical charcuterie and cheeses
- Summer tarts
Toasting with Argentine wines is a celebration of identity
Whether with a Patagonian sparkling wine, a Mendoza Malbec or a Torrontés from Salta, the holidays are the perfect time to enjoy the diversity of Argentine winemaking. Each grape tells a story and reflects a region, inviting travellers from all over the world to discover our landscapes, flavours and traditions.