Viognier from Salta

The region of Salta in the North of Argentina is not widely known for its wines but in the higher altitudes there lie the prefect nutrient poor soils and ideal cool microclimates for the cultivation of classic French grape varieties which typically benefit from a longer ripening period. It was the forefathers of the Quara Estate, the Lavaque family who pioneered viticulture in this region after settling in 1886. In fact Felix Lavaque was the first to plant the noble varieties of Viognier, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon in the territtory.  

The Viognier of today has a ripe peachy character with cleansing acidity and a gentle rounded mouthfeel as a result of the addition of a small percentage of Chardonnay. 

A Bordeaux Blend from Mendoza

Further to the south lies the most famous of the Argentinean wine producing regions, Mendoza. Mendoza is most widely recognised for the single variety Malbecs which are solely responsible for bringing the country to the forefront of the wine consumer's mind over the last 10 to 15 years. There are however a growing number of producers who are doing interesting things with other grape varieties and styles who are pushing the boundaries of what the region can achieve.

One such producer is the relatively new Altocedro Estate who are managed by one of the most respected winemakers in Argentina, Karim Mussi. They are based in the highly desirable micro-climate of the San Carlos which enables them to fully ripen not just Malbec but also Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The resultant wine is well balanced with a very approachable fruit driven style, ripe summer fruit with warming spice and clean structured finish.

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