What’s a better way to learn about Argentine wines than touring around with one of the most knowledgeable guides in Buenos Aires, internationally acclaimed Time Out Magazine. Even if you can’t make it to Argentina’s wine capital in Mendoza, the Buenos Aires Time Out wine tour gives eager wine aficionados an informal yet informative introduction to the wonderful wines of Argentina. Here are some of our favorite wines from the day.
We celebrate the start of the wine tour with some bubbly from one of Buenos Aires best steakhouses, Don Julio, an ideal meeting point. This popular parrilla is not only known for their scrumptious steaks, but have quite an impressive wine selection, and they also use the Entaste digital wine list! This sparkling Rosé from Mendoza, the Cruzat Larrain Rosé Cuvee Reserve by Bodega Cruzat, was a great Pinot Noir – Chardonnay blend. Bright yet complex, it had a nice balance of peach and green apple, thanks to the Chardonnay, while also containing dark cherry aromas, contributed by the Pinot.
Gaining much international press in the past few years, the Argentine Torrontés is related to the Muscat grape, and could be described as the more sophisticated sister of Pinot Grigio. This Andeluna Torrontés 2011 is made from premium grapes that grew in the foothills of the Andres Mountains at an altitude of 1300 meters.
Coming from the same vineyard 1300 meters high, the Andeluna Malbec Rosé 2011 is made from hand selected berries. It has a strikingly beautiful intense rose and violet color, berries in the nose and a smooth, slightly sweet taste. It’s also important to note that the consulting enologist to this winery is legendary winemaker Michel Rolland.
Next we tried two Mendoza wines from Argento. First, a 2011 Pinot Grigio, light and fresh, with tropical fruity flavors and a dash of spice, it has a subtle sweet notes and a bright, crisp finish. The Malbec, one of their signature wines, has a deep purple color with complex flavors of plum and blackberry, and a hint of vanilla and chocolate.
And for the finale, Barrandica Vista Flores Pinot Noir Selection 2009 by Bodega Antucura. A very delicate Pinot with strawberry, walnut and even lilac aromas. A great way to end the day.
Overall, a wonderful afternoon that presents a good introduction to Argentine wines and some beautiful Buenos Aires restaurants.
Note: This wine tour was held in the summertime, with the wine selection slightly changed to reflect the hot summer months.