Luján de Cuyo
Malbec Ground

Luján de Cuyo, a province of Mendoza, Argentina, in the foothills of the Andes mountain range, constitutes a terroir of excellence, which has harmonized the gifts of Mother nature and the wisdom of man to become the best vitiviniculture region in Argentina, with worldwide recognition of its wines. This region includes renowned wineries such as Catena Zapata, Norton, Achával-Ferrer, Terrazas de los Andes, and Viña Cobos.

The landscape was destined to be made a postcard, with the mountains, blue skies, bright sun, dry and fresh climate, arid and rocky soils, sometimes blessed by alluvial streams that come down from the mountain via the Mendoza River. The region lies between 700 and 1,000 meters (3,280 ft) above sea level, and has been transformed by men since the ancient times of the indigenous Incan and Huarpe peoples, as well as later with the migrations of Spanish and Italian populations. Over the years, squash, corn, beans, and more recently, grape vines have been cultivated here.

Converted into a garden by the combination of a unique microclimate and rustic hands of men who have known the land for centuries, this land is now the principal region for grape production in Argentina. The wineries produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris y Torrontés of the highest quality. But fundamentally, the microregion of Alto Agrelo within Luján de Cuyo is the best Malbec in the world is produced.

Also known as the “First Zone” of Argentine wine, Luján de Cuyo consists of different, smaller districts. The wines have won innumerable prizes and are recognized as the best of the country. This region is a veritable oasis for the cultivation of a broad variety of noble grapes. These vineyards are located between 750 and 1100m (2460-3610ft) above sea level. The climatic conditions (with an average temperature of 15 degrees Celcius) permit the formation of color and tannins in the wines, making them apt for longer aging and storing. The denominations with higher altitude, like Vistalba, Las Compuertas, or Perdriel are colder. The lower altitude districts are warmer, forming distinct microregions relatively close together (no more than 12mi).

Malbec is the typical varietal, some vines reaching over 50 years that constitutes a irreplaceable vitiviniculture patrimony. In the higher altitude zones, the wines produced have more body, acidity, and color, conditions that diminish as the altitude decreases. Other varietals characteristic of the region are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, of which they make red wines meant for aging and first wines. As for whites, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc reach their best expression. Semillon adapts well to the higher regions over the right margin of Mendoza River, producing wine with excellent characteristics, with the capacity to age.