Salta, in northwestern Argentina's Andean foothills at 1,700–3,000m altitude, produces some of the world's most extreme and distinctive wines. The Calchaquí Valleys — particularly Cafayate — are home to Torrontés (Argentina's signature white) and high-altitude Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. The world's highest vineyards, some approaching 3,000m, experience intense UV radiation, massive diurnal temperature swings (up to 25°C), and low humidity that produce wines of extraordinary aromatic concentration, natural acidity, and colour intensity. Colomé and Achaval Ferrer (Cafayate labels) are reference producers.
| Year | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | — | Good vintage; extreme diurnal variation produced wines of great freshness and depth. |
| 2022 | — | Exceptional vintage for Salta — wines of benchmark quality at all altitude levels. |
| 2021 | — | Fine conditions; Torrontés and Malbec both showing classic high-altitude character. |
| 2020 | — | Outstanding year; Cafayate wines of exceptional concentration from the intense Andean conditions. |
| 2019 | — | Good vintage; extreme altitude freshness preserved in both whites and reds. |
| 2018 | — | A landmark Salta vintage — high-altitude Malbec and Torrontés of extraordinary aromatic intensity. |
| 2017 | — | Variable year; high-altitude sites performed best |