Tag: Tempranillo

Did you know that the Tempranillo grape variety is experiencing a renaissance within the international wine production sector? Countries such as Chile and Argentina have been demonstrating a special interest for this stock native to Spain for the last few years. It arrived in Argentina halfway through the 19th century. The Tempranillo is a red wine grape and it is the main variety used in the Rioja designation of origin, where it represents over 60% of production. The first references to this stock date back to the 13th century. It is believed that it comes from the Albillo mayor –which is scarcely grown today– and the Benedicto varieties. The name ‘Tempranillo’ comes from the fact that it ripens some weeks before than others. It has a dark skin and it adapts very well to climates with hot days and cool nights; this is the case of the province of Mendoza. In fact, it blooms successfully after its vineyards have been planted 1,700 metres high in the Uco Valley. By means of Bodega Argento’s blog, The Real Argentina, discover the qualities of the Tempranillo wines. Its stock is now usually planted in countries with wine tradition. In general, they are intense ruby-coloured wines with purple hints; they are full-bodied wines with fruity and spiced (berries, tobacco, vanilla…) aromas. Know the thoughts on the Tempranillo –or Tempranilla– by the hand of some of the best Argentine sommeliers, find out in which restaurants and wineries you can enjoy its flavour and aroma and discover the versatility of this variety that allows combining it with other drinks for creating refreshing cocktails. Our short pairing guide will also give you some clues to find the perfect menu to pair with Tempranillo wines (normally mixed with other varieties): pastas seasoned with light sauces, roasted meats, river fish, stews, cold meats and light cheese. The optimal temperature for a Tempranillo wine to be served ranges between 14 and 16 degrees.

Grape Expectations: Less Common Varieties of Argentina Wine

As Argentina is a country made up of immigrants for the most part, it makes perfect sense that its grapes (excluding Torrontés) are also documented aliens. Take our dearly beloved Malbec. We all know it originates from Cahors in south-west France, don’t we? That’s right, the Old World has had its hand in defining Argentina’s viniculture, thanks to big hitters Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and of course Malbec – from Salta in the north to Patagonia in the south…

August 6th, 2014