Best South American Wine Types
Malbec originally comes from southwest France, but recently it has become one of the most important grape varieties in Argentina, where it developed an entirely different flavor profile. Due to the unique geographic and climatic features, Argentinian Malbec usually displays fruity notes of cherries, strawberries, or plums that are complemented by soft and velvety tannins.
When aged in oak, the wine usually develops chocolate, vanilla, tobacco, or cocoa nuances. Argentinian Malbec is best paired with grilled or roasted beef, especially leaner cuts such as skirt steak, but it can also work well with pork or poultry.
THE BEST Malbec Argentina Wine Varieties
Although Carménère originated in Bordeaux, it has virtually disappeared from its native region, and though small amounts of Carménère are planted in Italy, Argentina, and California, the grape found its true home in Chile where the majority of it is planted today.
Long considered extinct and mistaken for Merlot, this dark-skinned grape is used in blends, but it performs best as a single varietal wine. The best expressions of Chilean Carménère will display aromas and flavors of juicy red fruit that may be accompanied by herbal, spicy, and black fruit nuances.
Torrontés Riojano is a white Argentinian grape that is used in the production of the namesake varietal wine. These light-bodied wines are usually perfumed and aromatic, while they typically display a wide array of fruity and floral aromas which are complemented by well-balanced, bright acidity.
They are best enjoyed young and can match a variety of fish dishes, as well as veal or pork based courses. The grape is dominant in the northern Salta and La Rioja regions, and it is related to Torrontés Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino varieties.
País is a grape variety that was brought over from Spain (known as Listán Negro) to South America. Since its introduction in the 16th century, it was commonly used in the production of basic bulk wines, but it was often overshadowed by more popular French grapes.
However, recently more producers have come to realize its full potential to produce good quality, approachable wines. País wines are usually fresh and light to medium-bodied, while they typically display fruity, earthy and herbal aromas and flavors reminiscent of red and black fruits.
Although Tannat is native to France and primarily known in Madiran AOC, this dark, thick-skinned variety has become one of the most important grapes in Uruguay. The variety, which was brought to Uruguay in the 19th century, produces powerful and tannic red wines.
When it was first brought to Uruguay, it was named after Pascual Harriague, who planted the first vines near Salto. At the moment, Tannat is the most commonly planted grape in Uruguay. The wines are dark, usually deep violet, with firm tannins, good acidity, and aromas of blueberries, plums, and spices.
Although it originated in Savoie, where it is known as Douce Noir, this red grape variety has shown great potential in Argentina. The grape is dominantly planted in Mendoza wine region, and up until recently, it has been the most commonly planted grape in the country. Bonarda is used in blends, as well as high-quality varietals that are typically light-bodied and fruity, with moderate tannins and well-balanced acidity.
These pleasant and approachable wines usually display aromas of cherries, plums, and cloves, and can match various dishes, from tomato-based pasta dishes to hearty meat-based courses. Argentinian Bonarda should not be mistaken with the Italian Bonarda Piemontese.
Best South American Wine Producers
Familia Zuccardi is a prominent olive oil producer based in Mendoza, Argentina. The company cultivates several varieties of olives, including Arbequina, Arauco, and Manzanilla. Familia Zuccardi is committed to sustainable agricultural practices in their olive groves.
They employ state-of-the-art technology in their production process to ensure high-quality olive oil. The company's product range includes extra virgin olive oils that have received international recognition.
AWARDS
Olive Japan - Gold
2023, 2022, 2020, 2019
Flos Olei - The Best
2024
Olive Japan - Premier
2023, 2022
BEST Familia Zuccardi Olive Oils
Catena Zapata is a renowned Argentinian winery located in the Mendoza region, celebrated for pioneering high-altitude viticulture and producing world-class Malbec wines. Founded in 1902, this family-owned winery is led by the Catena family, who have played a crucial role in elevating Argentina's wine reputation globally.
Catena Zapata focuses on sustainable practices and meticulous vineyard management, especially in the Andean foothills, where they grow their grapes at various altitudes to enhance complexity and character.
AWARDS
James Suckling - 100 points
2024
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2021
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2017, 2016
AWARDS
USA Wine Ratings - Gold
2021, 2020
BEST Artel Inc. Wines
AWARDS
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2024
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2017
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2017
BEST Bodega Garzón Wines
Viña Cobos is a renowned winery located in Mendoza, Argentina, established in 1998 by the esteemed winemaker Paul Hobbs. Since its inception, Viña Cobos has become internationally recognized for its expertise in producing luxury-class wines and is a world leader in Malbec quality.
The winery focuses on creating wines that naturally express the terroir from which they originate, emphasizing elegance, power, and balance. This is achieved through meticulous vineyard management, where craftsmanship and respect for the land are fundamental.
AWARDS
James Suckling - 99 points
2024
Vivino - 4.8
BEST Viña Cobos Wines
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Gold
2020
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2022, 2020
BEST Marqués de la Concordia Wines
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2021
Concours Mondial de Bruxelles - Grande Médaille d'or
2021
BEST Bodegas Ugalde Wines
AWARDS
USA Wine Ratings - Gold
2021
BEST Cuvelier Los Andes Wines
TerraMater is an olive oil producer based in Santiago, Chile. The company focuses on producing high-quality extra virgin olive oils. TerraMater incorporates state-of-the-art technology and sustainable agricultural practices in its production process.
They offer a variety of olive oil products, which are recognized for their rich flavor and health benefits.
AWARDS
Flos Olei - The Best
2023
Decanter World Wine Awards - Platinum
2018
BEST Terramater Olive Oils
Best South American Wines
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2024
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2018
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2017
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2017
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2017
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2021
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2022
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2022
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2022
AWARDS
Decanter World Wine Awards - Best in Show
2022
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