Published: June 01. 2010 2:00AM
By Danny Baker
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Australia has the reputation for being the country “down under,” but Argentina is rapidly becoming a strong competitor in the market for wines made below the equator.
Despite Australia’s reputation, Argentina actually has a number of advantages for wine growing. Whereas Australia must dry farm, Argentina for the most part has the advantage of water runoff from the Andes mountains, which separate Argentina from Chile. This natural source of irrigation provides abundant water for the vineyards.
Argentina is the most important wine-producing country in South America. The largest wine-growing province in Argentina is Mendoza, which accounts for over 70 percent of the country’s production. Mendoza is located in the far west of the country, just a mountain range away from Santiago, Chile. Argentina’s most popular wine is Malbec, a grape that is traditionally a blending component in red wines from Bordeaux, France. Argentina is also known for Torrontes, a very aromatic, floral, white grape that is not grown anywhere else in the world.
So, if you are interested in exploring the wines from Argentina, where might you start?
Alamos is one of the premium producers in Argentina. Alamos was started by the Catena family, who are among the forefathers of the modern Argentine wine business. Nicolas Catena was the grandfather in the business, who ultimately turned over the reins to granddaughter Laura. In recent years, the Alamos operation was acquired by U.S. wine leader Gallo. Alamos wines are affordable benchmark examples of classic grapes, available widely in retail stores and restaurants.
Among the varietals Alamos produces are Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Torrontes. Most of us are familiar, of course, with Chardonnay and Cab. The Argentine versions tend to be more rustic than California wines. You will taste the terroir, the soil from which the wines grew. Malbec and Torrontes, on the other hand, take on the unique characteristics of Argentina, offering aromas and flavors that are not only unique to the country but pair wonderfully with summer menus.
Don Miguel Gascon is another Argentine producer who offers premium Malbec. The wine is characterized by dark fruit flavors, with abundant spices and smoked meat nuances. This Malbec pairs wonderfully with grilled food, red meats particularly, but grilled vegetables as well.
Where can you enjoy these unique wine experiences in Greenville? The Cazbah on West McBee offers Alamos Torrontes by the glass. Consider pairing a glass with their lobster cigars.
Looking for a new wine experience? Go below!