Located in the southernmost part of Argentina and formed by several provinces, of which Rio Negro and Neuquén are great fruit producers. In this exciting “last frontier” terroir, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Merlot have found an exceptional place given the relatively cooler climate. Also Malbec expresses itself in unique and exceptional ways.
PATAGONIA
Rio Negro, 400m, is a terroir with a long tradition in viticulture and fruit growing; wine has been made here for more than 100 years. It is an oasis where the fruit can achieve all its natural characteristics. There are only a handful of wineries here, almost all boutique and focused on quality. 3,000 acres of vineyards planted.
Representative winery: Verum.
Neuquén, at 400m, 3,300 acres planted, is a wild area which has seen great development in the last 10 years as a wine region. Very windy place which forces the grapes to have a thicker skin. The district of San Patricio del Chañar has been booming, with vast amounts of new vineyards recently being planted. The district of Añelo is much smaller and has a unique red clay soil composition.
Master Sommelier & Master of Wine Doug Frost discusses Coastal Patagonia and Wapisa Malbec.
