Argentina - WSET L3 in Wines Flashcards
How are Argentina’s wine regions influenced by geography?
Most vineyards are near the Andes, benefiting from altitude and dry desert conditions.
What are Argentina’s signature grape varieties?
Malbec for red and Torrontés for white.
What is the altitude range of Argentina’s vineyards?
Most are above 600 meters, with some in Salta reaching over 2,000 meters.
How does altitude influence Argentine wines?
Cooler temperatures at higher altitudes preserve acidity, enhance freshness, and add aromatic intensity.
How do Argentine vineyards manage low rainfall?
Irrigation systems use water from Andes-fed rivers or subterranean aquifers.
What are the main climatic risks in Argentina?
Spring frosts and summer hail, which can damage vines and reduce yields.
What are the characteristics of Malbec from Argentina?
Deeply colored, full-bodied, with black fruit flavors, smooth tannins, and floral notes at higher altitudes.
Where is Torrontés primarily grown?
Salta, especially in Cafayate, producing aromatic wines with floral and stone fruit notes.
What are the characteristics of Bonarda?
Deep color, high acidity, and tannins, with fruity raspberry and blackberry flavors.
Which international black varieties are widely planted in Argentina?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Merlot.
What is the main use of Pedro Gimenez in Argentina?
For low-quality wines aimed at the domestic market.
What is the traditional vine training system in Argentina?
Pergola (parral), used to lift grapes away from the heat and provide shade.
What is the modern vine training system in Argentina?
Vertical trellising, improving airflow and canopy management.
How has irrigation evolved in Argentina?
Drip irrigation is replacing flood irrigation to use water more efficiently.
What is Argentina’s wine classification system?
Geographical Indication (GI), with divisions into provinces and departments.
How is blending used in Argentina’s wine production?
Grapes from different regions are blended to combine diverse characteristics.
What is Salta known for in viticulture?
Home to some of the world’s highest vineyards, over 3,000 meters.
What are the main grape varieties in Salta?
Torrontés (white) and Malbec, with high purity and concentration.
What is the key growing area in La Rioja?
The Famatina Valley.
What is La Rioja’s specialty?
Torrontés, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Bonarda.
What distinguishes San Juan from other regions?
Hotter and more arid, with altitudes ranging from 450 to 1,400 meters.
What is San Juan particularly noted for?
High-quality Syrah.
Why is Mendoza significant in Argentina’s wine industry?
It produces the majority of Argentina’s wine, with diverse sub-regions.
What are the five divisions of Mendoza?
Northern, Eastern, Central, Uco Valley, and Southern Mendoza.
What is Luján de Cuyo known for?
Premium Malbec from old vines, with soft tannins and sweet spice.
What distinguishes Maipú?
Known for Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, with some high-volume production areas.
What makes Uco Valley unique?
High-altitude vineyards (900–1,500 meters), producing fresh, aromatic wines.
What is grown in Southern Mendoza?
Chenin Blanc and cooler-climate varieties due to its southerly location.
What are the key provinces in Patagonia?
Río Negro and Neuquén.
How does latitude influence Patagonia wines?
Cool nights and long daylight hours result in fresh, concentrated wines.
What grape varieties are prominent in Patagonia?
Malbec, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc.
How are premium Malbecs typically aged?
In new oak barrels, lending subtle spicy flavors.
How is Torrontés typically fermented?
In inert vessels to preserve its floral and fruity aromas.
What are the characteristics of high-altitude Malbec?
Fresher, more floral, with higher acidity and lighter body.
What is the major climatic risk in Argentina?
Summer hail, which can damage vines and reduce yields.
How do producers mitigate the risk of hail?
Use of protective netting or vineyard diversification across regions.
Why is Argentina suited for organic viticulture?
The dry climate reduces the risk of rot and mildew, minimizing the need for chemical treatments.
How does drip irrigation promote sustainability?
Conserves water and ensures efficient delivery directly to vine roots.
How long is Argentina’s wine-growing region?
It spans 1,500 km, from Salta in the north to Patagonia in the south.
What are the characteristics of Bonarda wines?
Deep color, high acidity, soft tannins, and flavors of blackberry and raspberry, often used for easy-drinking reds.
Name three other white grape varieties grown in Argentina besides Torrontés.
Chardonnay, Viognier, Sémillon, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc.
What is the Geographical Indication (GI) system in Argentina?
A classification system that identifies specific regions, provinces, and departments for wine production.
Which areas in Mendoza focus on high-volume production?
The Northern and Eastern Mendoza regions, growing grapes for inexpensive bulk wines.
What defines Central Mendoza as a wine region?
It includes prestigious departments like Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, producing high-quality wines at altitudes of 800–1,100 meters.
How does altitude influence Uco Valley wines in Mendoza?
High-altitude vineyards (900–1,500 meters) produce fresh, aromatic wines with high acidity and fine tannins.
What are the key climatic factors in Patagonia?
Cooler temperatures, strong winds, and long daylight hours because of higher latitude, wide diurnal range, creating fresh, concentrated wines.
What is the altitude range of vineyards in Patagonia?
Typically 200–300 meters, benefiting from cooler nights and balanced ripening.
What grape varieties thrive in Patagonia?
Pinot Noir, Malbec, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot.
Why is Malbec significant across Argentina’s regions?
It adapts well to diverse climates and altitudes, producing a wide range of styles.
How does the GI system help Argentine wines?
Provides regional identity and helps differentiate wines based on geography and terroir.
