Argentinian white wine is a testament to Argentina’s versatility and its winemakers' commitment to innovation and quality.
Historical Roots
Wine has flowed through the veins of Argentina for centuries. Brought by Spanish colonisers in the 16th century, viticulture soon found a hospitable home in Argentina's diverse climate and geology. While red varietals gained early prominence, white wines have always been a part of Argentina’s vinous heritage. It’s only in recent decades, however, that they’ve begun receiving the spotlight they rightly deserve on the global stage.
Major White Varietals
Torrontés: Often dubbed the "white emblem of Argentina," Torrontés is an aromatic grape that's native to the country. Primarily grown in Salta, La Rioja, and San Juan, Torrontés wines exude floral notes of jasmine and rose, combined with crisp acidity and flavours of peach and lemon zest.
Chardonnay: Finding its groove in cooler areas like the Uco Valley in Mendoza and Patagonia, Argentine Chardonnay offers a broad spectrum, from bright and lean with apple and citrus notes to richer, oak-infused wines with buttery textures.
Sauvignon Blanc: While not as widespread as its red counterparts, Argentinian Sauvignon Blanc is gaining traction, particularly in regions like San Carlos and Tupungato. These wines often display refreshing acidity paired with green apple, citrus, and sometimes subtle herbal nuances.
Viognier: This grape has found a niche in several Argentinian wine regions, producing wines with perfumed aromatics and flavours of apricot, peach, and honeysuckle.
Elevated Terroirs
Argentina's viniculture benefits immensely from its elevation. Many of the country’s vineyards are perched at altitudes ranging from 2,000 to nearly 10,000 feet above sea level. This attitude, particularly in regions like Salta and Mendoza's Uco Valley, provides a cool respite from the otherwise warm climate. The result? White wines that retain their natural acidity, offering freshness, vibrancy, and a mineral edge that is often associated with much cooler climates.
Modern Winemaking
Argentina's white wine renaissance can also be attributed to the evolution of its winemaking practices. There's a conscious move towards understanding the unique micro-terroirs, leading to wines with a distinct sense of place.
Furthermore, winemakers are blending tradition with innovation. Ancient methods like fermenting and ageing in concrete eggs or amphorae are employed alongside modern techniques. The use of oak is judicious, ensuring that the intrinsic character of the grape shines through.
Regions Making Waves
Salta: Located in Argentina's northwest, Salta is the cradle of Torrontés. The Cafayate Valley, within Salta, with its high altitude and diurnal temperature variation, is especially known for producing Torrontés with an enchanting aromatic profile and zesty palate.
Mendoza: While Mendoza is a red wine stronghold, areas like the Uco Valley are pushing the boundaries for whites, particularly Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Patagonia: As one of the southernmost wine regions in the world, Patagonia’s cool climate is ideal for creating elegant and nuanced Chardonnays.
Current Trends and The Future
The global wine community is becoming increasingly interested in wines that speak of their origin. In this context, Argentina's white wines, with their vivid expression of terroir, are perfectly poised for the limelight.
Additionally, organic and biodynamic farming practices are gaining momentum in Argentina. Such approaches not only contribute to sustainability but also often result in wines that are more authentic and terroir-driven.
Furthermore, there's a surge of interest in exploring and reviving ancestral grape varieties. While Torrontés is already established, there's potential for other indigenous or lesser-known white grapes to emerge and offer even more diversity to Argentina's white wine repertoire.Argentinian white wine is an exciting realm where tradition meets innovation and altitude dances with latitude. The wines, be it the aromatic allure of Torrontés or the structured elegance of a high-altitude Chardonnay, are compelling expressions of Argentina's diverse landscapes and its winemakers' passion.
While Argentina's reds, especially Malbec, may have paved the way for the country's wine reputation, its whites are carving out a niche of their own, promising wine enthusiasts a delightful exploration of flavours, aromas, and stories. The journey of Argentinian white wine is just beginning, and it's one that promises to be captivating.