Located inland, close to the Andes Mountain ranges, and at a lower altitude (300m, or 100ft) than Mendoza, Patagonia features an austere desert climate of warm days and cold nights that particularly suits the production of elegant wines including Argentina
Located inland, close to the Andes Mountain ranges, and at a lower altitude (300m, or 100ft) than Mendoza, Patagonia features an austere desert climate of warm days and cold nights that particularly suits the production of elegant wines including Argentina icon, Malbec and Pinot Noir.
Patagonia is a desert, and viticulture is possible only near the rivers, where meltwater from the Andes is abundant for irrigation. The classic desert climate of warm days and cold nights extends the growing season in the region, slowing ripening in the grapes and letting them develop rich varietal character while retaining acidity.
Patagonia has gained recognition within the wine world due to the two viticultural regions located in its northern section: the more-established Rio Negro and the newer, still developing Neuquen. Wines from these two zones are traditionally more European in style than those from the central and northern regions of Argentina, as a result of the areas' cooler climate and higher latitude. While Malbec still plays a central role in Patagonian wine, it is Pinot Noir that has become the region's iconic grape variety. Excellent white wines made from Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semilion and Riesling also showcase the freshness of the region's climate.
