DIVINE x Wines of Argentina
Argentina is the fifth largest producer of wines in the world. With 864 wineries, there is an endless supply of wonderful options. Argentine wines are growing in popularity thanks to the world famous Malbec grape. If you are a wine lover, don’t stop there. Argentine whites are just as delicious as their well-known reds. We are going to delve a little deeper into the region, the wines that make it so special and what to enjoy them with.
Wines of Argentina: Sauvignon Blanc
About the Wine: Sauvignon Blanc is a green-skinned grape variety originating from the Bordeaux region of France. The name comes from the French words sauvage (wild) and blanc (white). This pale white is known for its herbaceous, light taste. There can be notes of fruit like gooseberries, green apples, peaches or even tropical fruit.
About the Region: Tupungato, Uco Valley, Mendoza is where the majority of Argentine Sauvignon Blanc wines are produced. The sunny, higher altitudes and cooler temperatures of this region make it perfect for growing this varietal (a single, specified variety of grape). In fact, most of Argentine wineries are located next to the Andes mountain range, at higher elevations than most countries.
Our Pick:
Los Cardos Sauvignon Blanc 2018 has it all. It is fruity enough for people looking for intense flavour with aromas of passion fruit, grapefruit, lime, and white peach; yet, it is dry enough for people who like the clean finish of Sauvignon Blanc. It is suitable for vegans and Los Cardos has its BDA Sustainability Certification. Doña Paula vineyards have always been managed using sustainable agriculture practices.
Available at the LCBO – $9.95 for a limited time
Pairings:
- Cheese: Goat Cheese, Chevre or Alpine cheese – the tropical flavours and herbaceous nature blend well with tart or very mild flavours.
- Mains: White fish like halibut, shellfish or salads that are flavoured with green, leafy herbs.
- Desserts: Keep things light and fresh and pair with a lemon tart or green apple slices. This is not a wine to pair with rich desserts.
Wines of Argentina: Pinot Grigio
About the Wine: Pinot Grigio (known as Pinot Gris in France) is another white wine grape and a cousin to the red grape Pinot Noir. Pinot likely refers to the pine-cone shaped growing pattern of the grape clusters. Grigio or Gris is from the greyish blue hue of the grapes. This zesty, unoaked wine is one of the most popular whites. It is acidic with notes of lemons, limes, green apples and honeysuckle making it perfect for summer.
About the Region: Pinot Grigio grapes are harvested mainly in Mendoza (the largest wine growing region) or San Juan (the second largest wine growing region). The San Juan region is located in the northwestern corner of Argentina, between Mendoza and La Rioja at the foothills of the Andes in a semi-arid region. It is hotter and drier than Mendoza.
Our Picks:
Graffigna Pinot Grigio is a white wine you need on your table this summer. The light, slightly fruity taste is perfect on a hot day. It is a dry, light wine with flavours of citrus, apple and pear. This wine is from the San Juan region, comes from a winery with 150 years of history. Graffigna is the oldest winery in San Juan and the second oldest in Argentina.
Available at the LCBO – $10.95 for a limited time
Argento Seleccion Pinot Grigio
Here’s another great Pinot Grigio pick with a slightly different taste profile and made with grapes from Mendoza. It has ripe apricot and white peach flavours, notes of chamomile and a bright crisp finish – perfect for an afternoon outside or for evening beverages. Bodega Argento is found in the Mendoza region and the winery promises to bring you a “Taste of the real Argentina” with their wines. Similar to Doña Paula, this vineyard has its BDA Sustainability Certification and is vegan. Based on sales alone, this is Ontario’s favourite Argentine Pinot Grigio.
Available at the LCBO – $10.00 for a limited time
Pairings:
- Cheese: Soft mild cheese like mozzarella or baby swiss that won’t overwhelm the clean taste of the wine.
- Mains: Light seafood risotto with spring vegetables or seafood salads work well with the refreshing taste.
- Desserts: Similar to a Sauvignon Blanc, rich desserts including chocolate are not ideal pairings. Mascarpone stuffed crepes with a citrus sauce or a simple cheese platter are your best bets.
This content is intended for adults 19+ years of age. Please enjoy alcohol responsibly and in moderation. For more information about how to moderate alcohol consumption, visit the Government of Ontario’s website.
