Calchaqui Valleys is the most prolific wine region in Northern Argentina. It is also one of the highest anywhere in the world, with Vineyard altitudes ranging from 1500 to 3100 meters.
As with other parts of the Country, Malbec is the key variety, supported by Cabernet Sauvignon and Torrontés. Merlot, Tannat, Cereza, Syrah, Bonarda and Moscatel (usually Muscat of Alexandria) are also grown.
The valleys still only account for around two percent of the national output, but the wines are well regarded for their concentration and balancing Acidity. The region therefore punches above its weight in terms of winning awards.
The region is over 270 kilometers in Length, running north to South in a series of Deep valleys along the spine of the Andes. It is home to over 4,200 hectares of vineyards and more than 300 grape growers and producers, though no wineries are found here.
The zone spans state lines across Tucumán (accounting for just over 100ha of the total), Catamarca (over 700ha) and Salta (around 3400ha). The subregion of Cafayate Lies within the latter.
Average vineyard Size is much larger in Salta, at around 12ha. That average is just 2ha in Catamarca and Tucumán.
Originally from Bordeaux, Sauvignon, or Sauvignon Blanc, is reputed to be one of the best French grape varieties for white wine. It is a white grape variety, not to be confused with Sauvignon Gris and its pale yellow color, or with Cabernet Sauvignon which produces red wines. Particularly famous thanks to Sancerre, Sauvignon Blanc is cultivated as far as New Zealand, where it produces great wines whose reputation is well established.
white wines from the region of Calchaqui Valley go well with generally quite well with dishes of shellfish, vegetarian or goat cheese such as recipes of jambalaya (louisiana), summer tuna quiche or lasagna with courgettes and fresh goat cheese.
On the nose in the region of Calchaqui Valley often reveals types of flavors of pineapple, grapefruit or tropical and sometimes also flavors of citrus, apples or peach. In the mouth in the region of Calchaqui Valley is a powerful with a nice freshness.
