Argentina — wine

Cafayate Wine Region

Salta Province in Argentina's northwest; extreme altitude viticulture at 1,700–3,000m — the world's highest-altitude commercial vineyards. Torrential sunshine (300+ days), dramatic diurnal variation (up to 25°C), and rare rainfall. Torrontés Riojano (Argentina's white signature) thrives here; also high-altitude Malbec, Tannat, and Cabernet Sauvignon with distinctive mountain character. Sand-silt soils on ancient alluvial fans.

Year Rating Notes
2022 Perfect high-altitude conditions; Colomé Torrontés achieved maximum aromatic intensity; Malbec structured and mineral
2021 Good Calchaquí valley vintage; extreme altitude delivered natural acidity; Malbec restrained and complex
2020 Outstanding vintage; Colomé estate wines from this year showing remarkable altitude character and mineral depth
2019 Classic Cafayate profile; Torrontés explosively aromatic; Malbec from 2,300m showing iron mineral precision
2018 Variable Andean conditions; some hail impact; altitude estates with good drainage performed well
2017 Good conditions; Malbec from extreme altitude vineyards showing characteristic restraint and minerality
2016 Benchmark Cafayate vintage; Torrontés and high-altitude Malbec both considered reference expressions from this year