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Cafayate
Argentina
Top Subregions: Cafayate Valley
Region Description
Cafayate is a wine region located in the Salta Province of northwestern Argentina. It is known for its high-altitude vineyards, which are situated at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet above sea level. The region has a dry, sunny climate with significant diurnal temperature variations, which allows the grapes to ripen slowly and develop complex flavors.
Grapes & Wine Styles
Catamarca's vineyards cling to the slopes along the Abaucan River, primarily in Tinogasta and Fiambalá. The high altitude (up to 1,500 meters) and dry climate with cool nights favor red grapes like Malbec, Bonarda, and Syrah. These grapes produce wines known for their bold fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a hint of minerality. White wines from Torrontés and Chardonnay grapes are also gaining recognition.
Notable Producers
Catamarca's vineyards cling to the slopes along the Abaucan River, primarily in Tinogasta and Fiambalá. The high altitude (up to 1,500 meters) and dry climate with cool nights favor red grapes like Malbec, Bonarda, and Syrah. These grapes produce wines known for their bold fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and a hint of minerality. White wines from Torrontés and Chardonnay grapes are also gaining recognition.
Fun Fact about Cafayate
Cafayate is home to the Quebrada de las Flechas, a canyon that is known for its colorful rock formations. The canyon is a popular tourist destination and is a great place to go hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
Top Wines from Cafayate
El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec
El Esteco
El Esteco Don David Reserve Malbec is a premium wine produced by Bodega El Esteco, a renowned winery located in the Calchaquí Valley of Argentina. The wine is made from Malbec grapes grown in the high-altitude vineyards of the region, which are known for their unique terroir and ideal growing conditions. The winemaking process involves careful selection of the grapes, followed by fermentation and aging in oak barrels to enhance the wine's complexity and depth. The resulting wine is a rich and full-bodied Malbec with intense aromas of dark fruit, spices, and vanilla, and a long, smooth finish. It is a perfect choice for those who appreciate the unique flavors and characteristics of Argentine Malbec.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Cheese
Piattelli Malbec Reserve
Piattelli
Piattelli Malbec Reserve is an outstanding red wine that showcases the renowned Malbec grape variety from Argentina. Crafted with meticulous care and expertise, this Malbec originates from Piattelli Vineyards in the prestigious wine regions of Cafayate and Mendoza. Piattelli Malbec Reserve offers a rich and full-bodied drinking experience. It entices the palate with flavors of dark berries, plum, and a touch of spice. With its velvety tannins and well-balanced structure, this wine represents the epitome of Argentine Malbec. Indulge in the captivating allure of Piattelli Malbec Reserve and savor its exceptional quality and expressive flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the region.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Vegetable
Cheese
Fruit
Piattelli Malbec - Tannat Reserve
Piattelli
Piattelli Malbec - Tannat Reserve is a premium red wine produced by Piattelli Vineyards, a renowned winery located in the Mendoza region of Argentina. This wine is made from a blend of Malbec and Tannat grapes, which are grown in the high-altitude vineyards of the Andes Mountains. The unique terroir of the region, with its rocky soils and cool climate, gives the wine its distinctive character and complexity. The grapes are carefully handpicked and fermented in stainless steel tanks, followed by aging in French oak barrels for 12 months. The resulting wine is full-bodied, with rich flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice, and a long, smooth finish.
Read more Food Pairing:
Beef
Pork
Vegetable
Cheese
Burger, Sandwich And Wrap
Vallisto Malbec
Vallisto
From Argentina's famed Cafayate Valley, Vallisto Malbec is a shining example of the region's potential for crafting world-class Malbec wines. The high-altitude vineyards, nurtured by a unique blend of sunny days and cool nights, provide a one-of-a-kind terroir of sandy-loam soils rich in minerals. Winemaker Pancho Lavaque pays homage to both tradition and innovation, employing spontaneous fermentation with native yeasts and aging the wine in a mix of French and American oak barrels. The resulting Malbec is a powerful yet nuanced wine, reflecting the balance of fruit, structure, and elegance.
Read more Food Pairing:
Pork
Cheese
Beef
La Linda Torrontés
La Linda
La Linda Torrontés is a refreshing white wine produced by Luigi Bosca, a renowned winery in Mendoza, Argentina. The grapes are sourced from high-altitude vineyards in the Cafayate region, known for its unique terroir and ideal growing conditions for Torrontés. The wine is made using traditional winemaking techniques, with a focus on preserving the natural aromas and flavors of the grape. The result is a bright and aromatic wine with notes of citrus, white flowers, and tropical fruit. La Linda Torrontés is a perfect match for spicy dishes or as an aperitif on a warm summer day.
Read more Food Pairing:
Fish
Salad
Beef
Asian Food
Toufu