SAN ANTONIO - While Argentina is the fifth-largest producer of wine in the world, the product has not been as impressive in quality as in quantity.
But more good wines are coming out of Argentina these days as growers and producers strive to meet world standards.
For those who are not familiar with this winemaking region, here is a quick primer on wines, as well as some culinary highlights of Argentina.
The majority of the wines produced in Argentina are red wines.
Mendoza, the largest viticultural region, produces the majority of the country's wines. Malbec is the most-produced varietal here; others include tempranillo, pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon and syrah, while white grapes include muscat, chenin blanc, chardonnay, torrontes and riesling.
Malbec has been called "the Bordeaux of Argentina." Cabernet and merlot are the most-used blending grapes for red Bordeaux wines, but there are a number of others used as well to add flavor and complexity. Malbec is a minor player in this group in Bordeaux. Other grapes include cabernet franc and petit verdot.
In the Mendoza region of Argentina, though, malbec has really come into its own. The grapes here seem to produce more interesting wines than do those in France. Consistent weather conditions, ample sunlight and "terroir" are factors.
Argentina is a nation of beef eaters.There, beef is eaten in as many forms as we eat it here, but the country is most famed for its grilled beef. Malbec, and other red wines, as well as beer, are favorites for accompanying this national dish.
Argentina is one of the few wine-producing regions not plagued by phylloxera, the devastating grape-vine disease. *
