High-altitude vineyards in Argentina

Argentina is recognised in the world for its high-altitude vineyards, where concentrated and elegant wines are produced, wines with their own unique characters and varied styles comparable to the best in the world.

The Calchaquí Valleys is a system of valleys and mountains located in the northwest of the country, that extends for 270 km from north to south through the provinces of Salta, Tucumán and Catamarca. It gathers some of the highest vineyards in the world, reaching between 1,700 and 3,100 meters above sea level, representing 2% of the vineyards planted in Argentina.

This region is delimited by the Sierras de Quilmes, on the west and the Aconquija on the east which conditions the climate preventing moisture masses from entering the valley, generating continental climate. Its aridity and scarce rainfall (200 mm per year), makes it essential to use irrigation with pure melting water from the mountain.

In height the average temperature is lower since it decreases, approximately one degree every 100 m when we ascend, delaying the vine processes as well as the ripening, achieving higher quality grapes.

It also favors the thermal amplitude allowing the plants to work during the day and rest and recover during the night, especially on the hot summer days before the harvest.

Altitude also determines the quantity of UV radiation. Due to a thinner atmospheric layer UV radiation is greater. This generates a physiological reaction in the plant that develops thicker skins to protect itself, creating a higher concentration of polyphenols.

Great aspects of wine come from the skins including color, aromas and tannins. Added to a precision viticulture that seeks the optimum point of maturity for the harvest, allows wines with personality and elegance to be achieved concentrated but subtle, memorable wines to drink today or save for years.