Argentina is one of the world's great wine countries — and one of its best kept secrets. Home to the highest vineyards on the planet and a winemaking tradition stretching back over 150 years, Argentina produces wines that rival the finest bottles from Bordeaux and Napa Valley — at a fraction of the price.

At the heart of it all is Mendoza, where Malbec found its true home. At altitudes between 900 and 1400 metres above sea level, the combination of intense UV radiation, stony soils, and dramatic day-to-night temperature swings creates wines of extraordinary depth and elegance — earning scores above 95 points from Wine Spectator year after year.

But Argentina is far more than Malbec. From the electric Torrontés of Salta's Cafayate Valley to the cool-climate Pinot Noir of Patagonia, the country rewards every level of wine curiosity. This guide covers top-rated bottles, the best Mendoza wine tours, luxury vineyard hotels, and in-depth profiles of every major grape variety and region.

Whether you're discovering Argentine wine for the first time or planning a trip to the vineyards — you're in the right place.

Argentina's Wine Regions: A World of Diversity in One Country

No two Argentine wine regions taste the same. Mendoza — the country's undisputed wine capital — produces the bold, velvety Malbecs that built Argentina's global reputation, but the story doesn't end there. In the northwest, Salta's Calchaquí Valleys reach altitudes above 3,000 metres, producing the world's highest-grown wines — intense, mineral, and unlike anything else on the planet. Further south, Patagonia's cool river valleys yield elegant Pinot Noir and fresh Malbec with a precision and delicacy that surprises even seasoned wine lovers.

Each region has its own personality, its own soil, its own rhythm. The limestone of Gualtallary produces wines of electric tension. The ancient alluvial deposits of Altamira deliver silk and florals. The warm clay soils of Luján de Cuyo give Malbec its classic velvety body. Understanding these differences is what transforms a casual wine drinker into a genuine connoisseur — and Argentina, more than almost any other country, rewards that curiosity with wines of extraordinary quality and value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vinos Argentinos?

Vinos Argentinos is the leading English-language guide to Argentine wine. We cover every region, grape variety, winery, and wine experience in Argentina — with honest recommendations for travelers, enthusiasts, and buyers in the US market.

What makes Argentine wine different from other South American wines?

Altitude. Argentina's vineyards range from around 500 meters in Patagonia to over 3,000 meters in Salta's Calchaquí Valleys — the highest commercial vineyards in the world. In Mendoza, most vines grow between 900 and 1,600 meters. That elevation means intense sun, cool nights, and a dramatic temperature swing that preserves natural acidity and builds extraordinary complexity. No other wine country offers this range.

Is Malbec the only grape worth knowing?

Not even close. Malbec is Argentina's signature — but Cabernet Franc from the Uco Valley is turning heads worldwide, Torrontés is the only truly indigenous white grape in South America, and Bonarda quietly produces some of the best value bottles in the country. There's a whole world beyond Malbec waiting to be discovered.

What is the best wine region in Argentina?

Mendoza accounts for over 70% of Argentina's production and is home to the legendary Uco Valley subregions — Gualtallary, Paraje Altamira, and Los Chacayes. But Salta's Cafayate Valley produces stunning high-altitude whites and reds, and Patagonia is emerging as a cool-climate frontier. The best region depends on what you're looking for.

Can I visit Argentine wine country from the US?

Absolutely. Mendoza is a 2-hour flight from Buenos Aires, which connects directly to major US cities. The wine tourism infrastructure is world-class — boutique lodges, private tastings, harvest experiences, and guided tours are all available year-round. We cover the best options in our Mendoza Wine Tours and Wine Hotels guides.

Where can I buy Argentine wine in the United States?

Argentine wine is widely available at Total Wine & More, Wine.com, K&L Wines, and most specialty retailers nationwide. We link directly to trusted US retailers throughout the site so you can find and buy the bottles we recommend.

How do I start exploring Argentine wine if I'm new to it?

Start with a good Malbec from Luján de Cuyo or the Uco Valley — that's the foundation. Then try a Torrontés from Salta for something completely different. From there, our Grape Varieties guide and Regional guides will take you as deep as you want to go.

Did you know you can tour Argentina's top wine regions without leaving your screen?

Visit our interactive Argentine wine map and discover wineries, routes and experiences in every province.