Quick, what are the top 5 wine producing countries in the world? You know France, Italy and Spain all duke it out for 1^st place every year, but after that…the ‘ole U.S.A. actually takes fourth, and 5^th place may surprise you: Argentina. The vast nation in the southern tip of South America produces more wine than you may have thought. The amount that gets exported isn’t quite as high as other nations, on account of the Argentineans drink quite a lot of their own wine. Wine in Argentina is produced in numerous regions from international grapes and local varieties. In the past, focus has been on quantity, however quality wine production is the new standard in many vineyards

The largest producing region in Argentina is called Mendoza, which lies in the foothill area of the Andes on the western side of the nation. Two-thirds of all the wine in Argentina comes from this region at about the north-south center of the country. The vineyards here are some of the highest in the world averaging around 2,500 feet above sea level. Close proximity to the Andes are a double-edge sword for Mendoza. They provide the area with a sheltered, continental climate that doesn’t experience extremes in temperatures; but they also cast the region in a rain shadow which results in semi-desert like conditions. (Very similar to the vineyards in eastern Washington State) Fortunately the mountains provide a snowmelt every spring, which can be harnessed for irrigation.

You’ve probably had the most popular export from Mendoza by now: Malbec. This old world French grape came to Argentina with immigrants in the 1800’s and has settled to the Argentine environment very nicely. These days, Malbec production in Argentina vastly outnumbers French production. Malbec from Mendoza is generally a dark red wine, with smooth tannins and generous fruit flavors.

It’s been said that Malbec is the new Merlot because it appeals to consumers in many of the same ways: it’s not terribly challenging, it’s generally softer and less acidic and tannic and it’s a little exotic—but not too wild. There’s a lot of bulk production out there that can be had for less than $10. Fortunately, there’s been a strong movement to producing much higher quality Malbec, with smaller barrel aging, vineyard designation and improved vine maintenance. This has amazingly been offered without a substantial markup. So now it’s possible to find many high-quality bottles of Malbec in the $15-20 range, which are usually worth the price.

Mendoza is a big region and there are several sub-areas that have begun to specialize in specific grapes and quality production. Valle de Uco is a region planted very high in the hills, around 4,000 feet, the dominant grapes here is Chardonnay. Maipú is a region known for gravel in the vineyards and excellent Cabernet Sauvignon. Finally, Lujan de Coyo needs to be mentioned as the first area in Argentina to be given appellation designation. The Lujan de Coyo area is known for the consistent high quality of its Malbec.

International Wine argentina, Malbec, mendoza

A new romance is always so exciting.  So is a nice glass of wine.  So much to love!

The tradition has favored women throughout history, being the receivers of flowers and chocolate.  These days, it’s OK to impress your man, ladies.  We are quite easy!  A nice bottle of wine, or port for that matter, does the job.  I might be partial here, but walk with me for a second….

After a long February 14th at work, you both are exhausted.  The last thing you want to think about is your run-of-the mill flowers and chocolate, and only one person gets those. (The ladies get off so easy!  Guys – if you are getting flowers and chocolate, we need to have a chat.)  Though the flowers are gorgeous and the chocolates decadent….we both know they don’t last.

So let’s say you still go the flowers and chocolate route.  Now, throw in a nice bottle of 2007 Caro Amancaya Malbec from Argentina, some candles, served in Tiffany wine glasses…now you are on a whole new level!  It’s the perfect gift from guy to gal (and I tend to be a biased male wine-lover).   A memorable evening of wine that lasts.  And of course, wine has healthy antioxidants!  (So does dark chocolate, but let’s forget that for a moment.  But if you can’t, Scharffen Berger 82% Cacao is the perfect pairing with wine.)

A perfect Valentine’s evening awaits!  I wonder what my wife got me this year….

WCI out

International Wine, Red Wine argentina, chocolate, flowers, Malbec, scharffen berger, tiffany

Wine Club Insider back again!

I’ve had a couple of the most “administratively intense” days I’ve had in years the past couple of days… 4 meetings, three conference calls, 40 or more phone calls, and 20 hours working on a new website… I’m SO ready to get out for a run or a snowshoe tomorrow!

I waited until this evening to open a bottle, but when I did, what a treat! I kind of randomly grabbed a bottle tonight, and came up with a 2003 V. Sattui Howell Mountain Zinfandel. Wow! What a wine!

That glorious first sniff and first sip… deep, currant, jam… did I mention deep? This is a BIG wine, but is perfect for drinking. the tannins have mellowed out, leaving the fruit and the flavor; the essence of a great Zin. Ahh… the day’s looking up!   www.vsattui.com

Okay, let’s finish off the “Big 6″ Bordeaux varietals…

After Cab Saus, Merlot and Cab Franc, the remaining three types tale off quickly in terms of volume.

Petite Verdot, possibly a predecessor of Cab Sauv, is principally used in the classic blends. It ripens much later than the other varieties in Bordeaux, often too late, so it fell out of favour in the Medoc – it’s home region. When it does ripen, it is added in small amounts to add tannin, colour and flavour to the blend. It’s growing a bit in the New World, and seems to be a little more dependable in its ripening. Some vintners have made nice “PVs”, but it is still more commonly used for stiffening up Cab Sauvs.

Malbec is a thin skinned grape that, in Bordeaux, is used mainly for blending, especially in making the famous “Claret” blend. It was taken over seas, and has found a home in South America, in particular Mendoza in Argentina, where the extra heat helps it ripen. Argentinian Malbecs are likely the best in the world, and can be quite exquisite.

The final varietal is Carmenere. One of the most ancient varietals, it is, surprisingly, almost gone from France, though some still remains in the Medoc. Like it’s cousin Malbec, it has found a home in South America, this time in Chile.

Carmenère wine has a deep red color and aromas found in red fruits, spices and berries. The tannins are gentler and softer than those in Cab Sauv, and is normally considered a medium body wine. Although mostly used as a blending grape, an increasing number of wineries do bottle a pure Carmenère which, when produced from grapes at optimal ripeness, imparts a cherry-like, fruity flavor.Of the ones I’ve had, the best ones were younger rather than not.

It is also making a real impact in some other regions, notably the Walla Walla area in Washington. Isenhower - www.isenhowercellars.com – makes a nice Carmenere for their wine club members.

Okay… tomorrow, we’ll move out of France for a bit and see what else is out there!

Cheers,

Wine Club Insider out.

Bordeaux, California Wine, Fine Wine, French Wine, International Wine, Red Wine, USA Wine, Vineyards, Wine Club, Wine Education, Wine Making, Wine Reviews, Wine Tasting Bordeaux, Carmenere, Malbec, Petite Verdot, South American wines, varietals, Walla Walla