Of an
intense red colour, with purple, black and bluish
shades, it is recognized by its aroma of very ripe
plums and blackberry or cherry marmalades.
Malbec finds a paradise in Mendoza’s ecosystem.
The so-called High Zone of Mendoza River, San Rafael
and the Uco Valley offer domestic and international
markets some of the most appreciated wines.
Other
varieties grown:
Cabernet Sauvignon:
It presents a provocative deep red colour, and its
first bouquets are reminiscent of green pepper, enriched
by a touch of black pepper, ripe red fruit or marmalades.
This variety has adapted very well to a mild climate
as it sprouts and ripens late.
Syrah: This variety
has been used to produce top-quality wines. This wine
reminds us of spicy bouquets, especially clove, figs
and dry fruit in general. The richness of vanilla
and leather flavours are produced after oak.
Merlot:Among red
varieties in Argentina, Merlot ranks fifth after Malbec,
Bonarda, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. This variety
gives forth a stylish but delicate wine. It is characterized
by a deep ruby colour with burgundy shades. The typical
aromas associated with this variety are described
as
black and red fruit, such as blackberries, strawberries
and ripe cherries.
Torrontés:
This is the most distinct white grape variety. It
gives forth a fruity, fresh, stylish white wine with
an acid hint. Specially chosen by young wine drinkers
who appreciate its fruity, floral features.
Chardonnay:This
variety gives rise to balanced, refined and very aromatic
wines. Its colour ranges from pale straw to golden
yellow and the aromas of these wines are associated
to pears, green apples and pineapples.
Ugni Blanc: This
variety is frequently used to produce blend wines
and it adapts very well as the basis for sparkling
wines. This wine presents a bright aspect, lemon yellow
in colour with greenish sparkles and bouquets reminding
of white flowers and tropical fruits such as pears
and pineapples.
Source: Fondo Vitivinícola Mendoza
Cultivated
hectares per variety.
Red
grape variety |
Cultivated
hectares |
|
White
grape variety |
Cultivated
hectares |
Malbec |
17,306 |
Torrontés |
8,178 |
Bonarda |
15,293 |
Chardonnay |
4,686 |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
12,916 |
Chenin Blanc |
3,573 |
Syrah - Shiraz |
8,333 |
Semillón |
1,037 |
Merlot |
5,878 |
Sauvignon
Blanc |
840 |
Tempranillo |
4,580 |
Viognier |
146
|
Sangiovese |
2,489 |
Barbera |
1,068 |
Pinot Noir |
1,062 |
Source: National Wine Institute
|