The Winery Clandestino of Uco Valley of Mendoza

Discovering the wine region of Uco Valley

The Uco Valley (Valle de Uco) is a key winegrowing region of Mendoza, Argentina. An hour's drive South from the city of Mendoza, it is home to some of the region's most famous wines. Argentina's primary Grape variety of Malbec shines here, producing terroir-driven red wines with a distinctive Floral">floralAroma. Cabernet Franc is much less widely planted, but some great results have been achieved.

In addition, some of Mendoza's finest white wines made from Chardonnay and Torrontés come from Uco Valley Vineyards. The relatively cool Climate allows the requisite slower ripening period. Although considered Part of the Mendoza region, the Uco Valley can be recognized in its own right on several counts. Not only is the vine-growing area quite distinct; the region is also home to several of Argentina's top producers.

Attracted by the excellent climate and soil, newcomers such as the Bordeaux-based names Lurton, Dassault, Rothschild and Rolland have raised the region's profile. The vineyards of Vista Flores have produced some particularly successful wines. Among Uco's specific merits is its high elevation at the foot of the Andes mountains. The valley's La Consulta and Tunuyan sub-regions sit at altitudes of 850 meters (2000 ft) and 1100m (3600 ft) respectively.