Cuyo

• Malbec: Deep purple, full-bodied, with plush tannins; flavors range from ripe blackberry and plum (Luján de Cuyo) to vibrant raspberry, wild herbs, and floral notes (Uco Valley), often underpinned by graphite minerality.
• Bonarda (Douce Noir): Medium-bodied, juicy and fresh, featuring lively red fruits like cherry and plum, with hints of clove and licorice.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold and structured, marked by cassis, black cherry, and savory notes of cedar and tobacco.
• Cabernet Franc: Elegant and aromatic, showcasing redcurrant, raspberry, and distinctive herbal and floral nuances.
• Syrah: Full-bodied and rich, with layers of dark fruit, smoked meat, leather, and black pepper; higher-elevation sites bring added freshness and spice.
• Torrontés Riojano: Intensely aromatic, bone-dry and crisp, with expressive notes of jasmine, rose petal, and citrus fruits.
• Chardonnay: Styles vary from mineral-driven and unoaked in cool, high sites to richer, creamier wines with subtle oak influence in warmer areas.
• Sauvignon Blanc: High-altitude expressions deliver racy acidity, vibrant lime and grapefruit, and pronounced herbal character.

Nestled at the base of the Andes, the Cuyo region plays a pivotal role in Argentina's wine production, with Mendoza, San Juan, and La Rioja as its key areas. The region's high-altitude, dry climate is perfect for cultivating a variety of grapes, benefiting from intense sunlight and significant diurnal temperature changes that develop rich flavors and preserve lively acidity. Low rainfall further concentrates flavors, resulting in wines of depth and character. Cuyo's diverse soils, from alluvial to sandy and rocky, provide a unique minerality, particularly enhancing Malbec, which flourishes in the warm days and cool nights. The high elevations and varied microclimates coax out the complex flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Torrontés Riojano, showcasing the region's rich winemaking heritage.

Exploring the Cuyo region's wineries reveals a tapestry of innovation and tradition, with each estate contributing uniquely to Argentina's wine narrative.

• Catena Zapata: Pioneers in high-altitude viticulture, renowned for Malbecs like Adrianna Vineyard, merging history with cutting-edge research in Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley.
• Bodega Norton: A historic estate since 1895, celebrated for its classic Luján de Cuyo wines and the elegant Privada Family Blend.
• Susana Balbo Wines: Led by Argentina's first female winemaker, known for innovative wines like Nosotros Malbec and setting a global benchmark for Torrontés.
• Zuccardi Valle de Uco: Champions of terroir-driven wines, emphasizing the Uco Valley’s unique calcareous soils with labels like Finca Piedra Infinita Malbec.
• Cheval des Andes: A prestigious collaboration with Château Cheval Blanc, crafting an Argentine "Grand Cru" in Luján de Cuyo and Uco Valley, known for its elegance and longevity.

In Cuyo, sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of winemaking, essential for thriving in its dry, high-altitude climate. The region's vineyards are increasingly adopting the Bodegas de Argentina Sustainability Protocol, a comprehensive approach launched in partnership with the Catena Wine Institute and the National University of Cuyo. This initiative emphasizes environmental care, social responsibility, and economic health. By 2023, 172 wineries had achieved certification, showing a strong commitment to sustainable practices. Moreover, many Cuyo wineries are pursuing organic and biodynamic certifications, further underscoring their dedication to preserving the unique landscape and community well-being. The region's winemakers are not only focusing on certifications but also on innovative practices that align with the area's natural characteristics. Water conservation is a priority, given the low rainfall and the need to maximize water resources efficiently. High-altitude vineyards benefit from intense sunlight and significant temperature variations, allowing for minimal intervention and low-impact viticulture. These efforts help protect Cuyo's diverse soils and enhance the rich flavors of its renowned grape varieties, ensuring that the region remains a leader in quality wine production while honoring its environment and people.

The Cuyo region, particularly around Mendoza, has become a prominent destination for wine tourism, celebrated for its integration of viticulture with cultural and culinary experiences. This area, known as one of the Great Wine Capitals, features over 150 wineries that open their doors to visitors, offering a blend of traditional winemaking and innovative hospitality. The wine tourism experience is enriched by three main trails: Maipú, Luján de Cuyo, and the Uco Valley. Here, visitors can indulge in winery lunches that pair local wines with gourmet meals, participate in hands-on activities like blending their own wines, and explore the stunning landscape through horseback or bicycle tours. A highlight of the cultural calendar is the Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia, a harvest festival that has been celebrated since 1936. This event, running from late February to early March, is a vibrant showcase of Mendoza's winemaking heritage, featuring parades, performances, and the crowning of the National Harvest Queen. For those planning a visit, it is advisable to book winery tours and lunches well in advance, especially during the lively harvest season from March to May. With an understanding of Cuyo's unique climate and geography, wine enthusiasts can appreciate the distinct flavors and styles that this region offers, from the plush tannins of Malbec to the aromatic intensity of Torrontés Riojano.