Day of the National Drink, Wine —Four Argentinian Wineries Deserving of Merits

Wine is as ingrained in Argentinian culture as is asado, tango, and Maradona. Glass in hand, amazing landscapes in the background: the most valid excuse to step on Argentinian land.

The story goes like this: on a 24th day of November, back then, in 2013, wine was declared a national drink with the Act n.° 26,870. Was making it official necessary? Of course. Wine-making culture is an emphatic yes, and this day seeks to spread what its production, elaboration, and consumption imply and even the traditions behind this fascinating grape nectar. 

Did you know that Malbec land is among the top five main world producers? Our country has approximately 223,585 vine cultivated hectares, so sighs of passion abound on national soil. We’re talking about none other than the most important South American wine-making place. Numbers don’t lie. If 19 of 23 provinces produce this purple beverage, it must be for a reason, right? Besides, the climate variety of Argentina allows for vines and colours for all tastes: Malbec, Cereza, Bonarda, Criolla Grande, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Torrontés, and more.  

If adrenaline, enthusiasm about landscapes, and desire of quenching your wine thirst are running through your blood, don’t miss this list: 

1. Vines in Uquía —The Highest Winery in America and Europe

It’s in Jujuy, specifically in the heart of Quebrada de Humahuaca. The Mina Moya winery is

at 3,640 metres above sea level, and the weather conditions and humidity are ideal for stowing red and white wines. Even though it may sound unbelievable due to the wine quality, it is located in an abandoned mine tunnel. They produce organic wines, and the star bottle (Uraqui Minero Corte A 2016) earned the applause of the prestigious Master of Wine, Tim Atkins, in his 2018 report.

In addition, it has an inn allowing guests to have a wine tourism experience, walks, regional gastronomy tasting, and the exact balance of nature to connect with the warm northern energy. 

2. Otronia —One of South America’s Most Southern Wineries 

They kept quiet about their secret for ten years. Now, the question is: how could they? Luckily, in 2020, they broke the silence and revealed a new wine region to the world on March 3rd. Otronia is on a plateau of no more than 300 metres above sea level, but in one of the most southern and cold places of the province of Chubut and the country. 

It is in the city of Sarmiento, in the Argentinian Patagonia, between mountain ranges and the Atlantic Ocean. It already sounds worth visiting, doesn’t it? Still, numbers are also in its favour. The prestigious journalist and Master of Wine, Tim Atkins, once more recognised the country’s value when he picked Juan Pablo Murgia, the vineyard’s founder, as the Young Winemaker of the Year 2020 in his Argentina Special Report.

What varieties can you taste? Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Thanks to the location’s wide thermal range, the wine profile entails pure aromas and good acidity.

3. Los Amaichas —One of the Three Rural Community Wineries in the World and the First in South America

Las Amaichas Community Winery is also in the north of Argentina, Tucumán in this case. As its name implies, it is set up in an indigenous community called Amaicha del Valle. 

For those who don’t know it, it’s a Diaguita Great Nation people, which still has a political system led by a cacique, an elder people council, and an assembly. The winery creation represented a wonderful way of integrating into society. Around 60 families work together to produce totally exquisite wines in harmony with Mother Earth. The local gem is Sumak Kawsay, which translates from Quechua into the good life. Do you still have doubts? A tour around the place mandatorily includes tasting it. 

4. Zuccardi Valle de Uco —The World’s Best Winery for Three Years in a Row

Yes, the world’s best winery is Argentinian. Piedra Infinita opened its doors six years ago, and half of that time was awarded the World´s Best Vineyard prize. The success formula? Top-notch wines, tastings that make guests’ taste buds become entranced, and an amazing architecture that captivates world travellers. Mendoza landscape improves it all: infinite greens and the adrenaline of being at the foot of the Andes mountain range. Actually, this natural portrait gave the winery its name, since it refers to the infinite surrounding nature.