Mendoza

Don Rodolfo's Malbec is a textbook example of why Argentina has become synonymous with this once-obscure French grape variety. Sourced from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza, where intense sunlight and cool nights create the perfect conditions for developing rich flavor while maintaining freshness. This isn't one of those overly extracted fruit bombs that leaves your teeth purple for days – it's a well-balanced expression that shows what Argentine Malbec does best. The altitude gives the wine a freshness that keeps it from being heavy, while still delivering those luscious dark fruit flavors Malbec lovers crave. It's the wine equivalent of that friend who's always reliable, never disappointing, and somehow manages to get along with whatever food you're serving. At this price point, it's practically a crime not to keep a bottle or two on hand.

Tannat is the ultimate red wine for those who find Cabernet Sauvignon too wimpy – and Don Rodolfo's version shows why this grape deserves more attention. Originally from Southwest France but now thriving in South America, Tannat produces wines with serious structure and aging potential. What makes this bottle special is how Don Rodolfo has tamed Tannat's famously aggressive tannins without sacrificing its bold character. The high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza provide the perfect growing conditions to develop rich flavors while maintaining balance. This isn't a wine for the faint of heart – it's for those nights when only something substantial will do. Think of it as the vinous equivalent of a leather jacket: bold, slightly intimidating at first, but ultimately rewarding for those willing to embrace its intensity. Decanting is highly recommended, unless you enjoy the wine equivalent of a punch in the mouth (no judgment here).

Altos Las Hormigas (Spanish for 'the high ants') is one of the pioneers that helped put Argentine Malbec on the world wine map – and their Clasico bottling shows exactly why this grape and country fell madly in love with each other. Founded by Italian winemaker Alberto Antonini and partners in 1995, the winery focuses on expressing the unique terroir of Mendoza through minimal intervention winemaking. This Malbec strikes that perfect balance between fruit-forward accessibility and genuine complexity. It's not trying to be a powerhouse that knocks you over the head – instead, it offers layers of flavor that unfold gradually in the glass. The high-altitude vineyards provide natural acidity that keeps everything fresh despite the ripe fruit character. It's the kind of red that makes you crave a second glass before you've finished the first – dangerously drinkable but with enough depth to keep things interesting. Perfect for converting friends who think they only like white wine.

Argentina may be famous for its Malbec, but this blend from Belasco de Baquedano proves that Bonarda deserves just as much attention. The 'Llama' series celebrates Argentina's iconic Andean animal – a fitting symbol for wines that express the unique high-altitude terroir of Mendoza with such distinctive character. This blend combines old vine Bonarda (Argentina's second most planted red grape) with Malbec, creating a wine with remarkable depth and complexity. The 'old vine' designation is important here – these mature vines produce fewer grapes but with much more concentrated flavor. Belasco de Baquedano's vineyards sit at over 3,000 feet elevation, where intense sunlight and cool nights create perfect conditions for developing rich flavor while maintaining freshness. The result is a wine that offers immediate pleasure with its generous fruit but keeps you coming back to discover new layers of complexity. Perfect for those looking to explore beyond basic Malbec into Argentina's broader wine landscape.

Cabernet Franc might be best known from France's Loire Valley and Bordeaux, but this old vine expression from Belasco de Baquedano proves that Argentina has something special to contribute to the variety's story. Part of the 'Llama' series (named for the iconic Andean animal), this bottle showcases what happens when Cabernet Franc meets the high-altitude terroir of Mendoza. Belasco's vineyards sit at over 3,000 feet above sea level, where intense sunlight and cool nights create perfect conditions for developing complex flavors while maintaining the grape's natural acidity and aromatic character. These old vines produce fewer grapes but with much more concentrated flavor and character. The result is a wine that honors Cabernet Franc's elegant nature and distinctive herbal notes while adding a layer of New World fruit intensity that makes it immediately appealing. It's a fascinating alternative for Cabernet Sauvignon drinkers looking to explore something with a bit more aromatic complexity and finesse.

Broadbent's Argentine Cabernet delivers exactly what you want from the variety – bold dark fruit, structure, and that satisfying finish that makes you reach for another sip. The high altitude vineyards of Mendoza provide the perfect conditions for Cabernet to develop intense flavor while maintaining freshness. While Broadbent may be better known for their Portuguese wine portfolio, this Cabernet shows they know their way around the international varieties too. The wine strikes that sweet spot between New World fruit expression and Old World structure – powerful enough to stand up to a steak but refined enough to enjoy on its own. At this price point, it's a bottle that punches well above its weight class.

Los Bocheros Malbec captures everything that made Argentina famous for this French transplant grape – bold fruit, velvety texture, and impressive depth at a price that makes French producers weep. From high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza comes this crowd-pleasing red that delivers serious bang for the buck. The name 'Los Bocheros' refers to players of 'bochas' (similar to bocce ball) – a popular Argentine pastime that, like this wine, brings people together in celebration. What makes this Malbec stand out in a crowded field is its perfect balance between power and drinkability. There's plenty of that lush dark fruit Malbec lovers crave, but with enough structure to keep things interesting through the whole bottle. It's the kind of red that makes weeknight dinners feel special without requiring a special occasion budget. Pair it with anything from the grill for a foolproof combination.

Sometimes wine doesn't need to be serious to be seriously enjoyable. New Age embraces this philosophy with their sweet white blend that's become a phenomenon in Argentina and beyond – particularly when served over ice with a slice of lime (a cocktail known as 'Tincho'). This blend of aromatic Torrontés and zesty Sauvignon Blanc delivers sweet, refreshing flavors without being cloying or heavy. Its lower alcohol content makes it perfect for daytime sipping, outdoor gatherings, or any occasion where you want something light and approachable. Wine purists might turn up their noses, but they're missing out on a whole lot of fun. After all, wine is ultimately about pleasure, and this bottle delivers that in spades. It's the perfect gateway wine for those who think they don't like wine – and a guilty pleasure for those who normally prefer their wines bone dry.

Sometimes two grapes are just better together – and this Malbec/Syrah blend from Passionate Del Mono proves it beautifully. It's like the wine equivalent of a power couple, combining Argentina's signature Malbec with the brooding intensity of Syrah. This Mendoza red brings together the best of both varietals: Malbec's juicy dark fruit and velvety texture with Syrah's peppery spice and structure. The 'Tinto' (meaning red in Spanish) is aptly named, as this wine doesn't hold back on flavor or character. It's the kind of bottle that makes you look like you know what you're doing when you bring it to a dinner party – which, after discovering this gem, you clearly do.

With a name that translates roughly to 'bone skin,' Pielihueso isn't trying to blend in with the crowd. This distinctive red blend from the Los Sauces vineyard in Mendoza showcases what happens when traditional Bordeaux varieties find their expression in Argentina's high-altitude terroir. The combination of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot creates a wine that's both familiar and surprising – recognizable components coming together to create something uniquely Argentine. Pielihueso represents the new wave of Argentine winemaking that looks beyond just Malbec to create wines with complexity and character. This is the kind of bottle that makes you reconsider what you think you know about South American wines – and at this price point, it's a risk well worth taking.

Santa Julia Cabernet Sauvignon is a well-balanced red wine from Argentina's Mendoza region, produced by Familia Zuccardi. This approachable Cabernet offers typical varietal characteristics with medium body and good structure, showcasing the high-altitude terroir of Mendoza.

Malbec may be Argentina's signature red grape, but Zorzal proves it can make equally compelling rosé. Their Terroir Unico Rosé is crafted from high-altitude vineyards in the Gualtallary region of the Uco Valley, where intense sunlight and cool temperatures create perfect conditions for developing flavor while maintaining freshness. This isn't your grandmother's sweet blush wine – it's a serious, dry rosé that happens to be seriously enjoyable too. The high-elevation terroir gives this wine a distinctive mineral backbone that sets it apart from more one-dimensional rosés. Zorzal, founded by the Michelini brothers (some of Argentina's most innovative winemakers), focuses on minimal intervention to express the unique character of their vineyards. The result is a rosé that works year-round – substantial enough for a meal but refreshing enough for poolside sipping.

Argentina might be famous for its Malbec, but this sparkling gem proves the country has more tricks up its sleeve. Alma 4 is a collaborative project between four winemaking friends (hence the name) who decided Argentina deserved its own world-class sparkling wine – and they've certainly delivered with this Chardonnay-based beauty. Produced using the traditional method (the same as Champagne, but without the Champagne price tag), this bottle brings all the elegance and complexity you'd expect from fine bubbles. The high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza provide the perfect conditions for growing Chardonnay with brilliant acidity and flavor concentration. It's the kind of sparkling wine that makes you wonder why you save bubbles for special occasions – when the real special occasion might just be finding a bottle this good at this price.

The Alma 4 winemaking quartet strikes again – this time with a rosé sparkling that proves Argentina can do pink bubbles just as brilliantly as they do everything else. Made from 100% Pinot Noir grown in high-altitude Mendoza vineyards, this bottle captures all the delicacy and charm you want in a sparkling rosé. Crafted using the traditional method (the same painstaking process used in Champagne), this wine spends time on the lees developing complexity while maintaining the fresh fruit character of the Pinot Noir. It's sophisticated enough for celebrations but priced reasonably enough that Tuesday night can become a celebration. The kind of wine that makes everyone at the table suddenly feel like they're having a much better time – which, let's be honest, they are. Pink bubbles have that effect, especially when they're this good.

While Argentina is best known for Malbec, bottles like Iconic's Sidekick Cabernet make a strong case for exploring beyond the country's signature grape. This Mendoza Cab delivers serious bang for the buck with the kind of rich fruit and smooth texture that has made Argentine reds so popular. Grown at elevation in Mendoza's high desert climate, this Cabernet benefits from intense sunshine during the day and cool nights that help preserve acidity and freshness. The result is a wine that offers California-like ripeness and accessibility but with a distinctive South American character – and at a price point that makes it perfect for everyday enjoyment. True to its name, this Sidekick is the perfect companion to a wide range of foods or simply for relaxed sipping when you want a red that delivers pleasure without demanding too much attention.

This isn't your everyday wine – blending Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as still wine (rather than sparkling) is relatively uncommon, but Ciena pulls it off with style. The result is something genuinely interesting: a wine that captures the bright fruit and structure of both varieties while creating something entirely new. It's like the wine equivalent of an unexpected friendship that somehow just works. Mendoza might be known primarily for its Malbec, but this bottle shows the region's versatility and willingness to experiment. The high-altitude vineyards provide the perfect conditions for both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to develop intense flavors while maintaining freshness and balance. This blend defies easy categorization – not quite white, not quite red, not quite rosé – making it perfect for those moments when you want something different without venturing into truly weird wine territory. Serve it with an open mind and watch as it pairs surprisingly well with a wide range of foods.

Argentina might be Malbec country, but this Cabernet Franc proves there's plenty of room for other varieties to shine in the foothills of the Andes. Montesco has crafted a wine that beautifully expresses Cab Franc's distinctive character while reflecting the unique high-altitude terroir of Mendoza. What makes Piefranc special is how it walks the line between Old World structure and New World fruit expression. The high-altitude vineyards provide intense sunlight for ripening while cool nights preserve the grape's natural acidity and aromatic complexity. The result is a wine with the varietal's characteristic herbaceous notes and graphite minerality, but with a generosity of fruit that makes it immediately appealing. It's Cab Franc that doesn't require a wine degree to appreciate – though wine geeks will find plenty to contemplate in its nuanced layers.

Criolla Chica (also known as País or Mission) is one of South America's heritage grape varieties, brought by Spanish missionaries centuries ago. While long overlooked in favor of international varieties, innovative producers like Mundo Reves are rediscovering its charms and showcasing its unique character. 'Le Petit Voyage' translates to 'The Little Journey,' which perfectly captures what this wine offers – a delightful excursion into Argentina's winemaking history with a modern sensibility. Made with minimal intervention to preserve the grape's natural vibrancy, this is light-bodied red wine at its most charming and versatile. It's the kind of bottle that can be slightly chilled and enjoyed with virtually anything – or nothing at all. In a world of heavy, high-alcohol reds, this wine's gentle touch and refreshing character provide a welcome alternative that proves sometimes less really is more.

Pétillant Naturel (or Pét-Nat for short) is the original sparkling wine – a method that predates Champagne by centuries. Mundo Reves has applied this ancient technique to Criolla Chica, one of South America's oldest grape varieties, creating a thoroughly modern wine that feels both innovative and timeless. The Pét-Nat method involves bottling the wine while it's still fermenting, allowing it to finish fermentation in the bottle and create natural carbonation. This results in a slightly cloudy, unfiltered sparkler with vibrant fruit character and a gentle effervescence that's utterly charming. 'Le Petit Voyage' is the perfect name – drinking it feels like a delightful little journey into wine's past and future simultaneously. It's funky but accessible, complex but joyful – the kind of wine that makes you wonder why anyone would drink mass-produced bubbly when gems like this exist.

While Malbec gets all the Argentine fame, those in the know have a soft spot for Bonarda – the country's second most planted red grape that delivers tremendous bang for the buck. Via Rev's 'Pura' version showcases this unsung hero in all its unadulterated glory. This isn't a wine trying to be something it's not – there's no heavy oak treatment or winemaking gymnastics, just pure, joyful fruit expression. The name 'Pura' is fitting – it's a pure, honest expression of Bonarda's natural charm. Via Rev is part of Argentina's exciting new wave of producers focused on drinkability and authenticity rather than power and extraction. The result is a wine that's seriously good without taking itself too seriously.

Don't let the playful 'Hulk' name fool you – this isn't a wine that will smash you over the head with overwhelming flavors. Instead, Via Rev's Semillon shows the gentle giant side of this underappreciated grape, with subtle power and surprising complexity. Semillon might be best known for its role in Sauternes and white Bordeaux, but Argentina's high-altitude vineyards bring a fresh perspective to this versatile variety. Via Rev is part of the exciting new generation of Argentine winemakers exploring beyond Malbec and challenging conventions. Their minimal-intervention approach allows Semillon's natural character to shine through – textured without heaviness, complex without being complicated. It's the thinking person's white that doesn't require a PhD to enjoy.

There's nothing 'brutal' about this wine except perhaps how brutally delicious it is. Via Rev's take on Argentina's signature white grape is a masterclass in balancing Torrontés' naturally exuberant aromatics with precision and restraint. The 'Brutal' name likely refers to the natural wine movement's term for wines made with minimal intervention – and this fits that bill perfectly. Many Torrontés wines can be overpowering or one-dimensional, but Via Rev has crafted a version with all the aromatic fireworks but backed by serious structure and complexity. It's like walking through a flower garden with a glass of lemonade in hand – intoxicatingly fragrant yet refreshingly dry. For those who think they don't like aromatic whites, this might be the wine that changes your mind.