Wines of Argentina
The ideal wines for summer grilling
It’s hard to believe that a country that has grown grapes since the 16th century could be considered a best-kept secret. But wine lovers who care to drink the best — while enjoying maximum bang for buck — are thrilled to discover Argentina’s diverse wines. The country’s varied regions are ideal for producing everything from sensuous reds to sublime cool-climate whites. The Andes bestow the benefits of cooling altitude, mountain breezes and snowmelt water, while organic viticulture is widespread due to a generally pest-free environment. Mendoza is the biggest producer, but also take note of Salta, San Juan, La Rioja and Río Negro.
As Argentina’s flagship grape, Malbec is renowned as the perfect match for anything grilled — thanks to the tradition of asado which describes both a festive social gathering and the technique of cooking over an open flame. Malbec is a traditional match for asado dishes of grilled beef, lamb, pork, chicken and sausages, though a robust Argentinian Cabernet Sauvignon works wonders too. Grilled vegetables and salads are key to asado, opening pairing options to lighter reds like Pinot Noir, crisp whites such as Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc, and Argentina’s famous Torrontés, a perfumed white with savoury notes that complement appetizers and fresh salads.
Ready to bring the magic of Argentina home? Explore LCBO’s extensive collection of the country’s food-friendly wines —these grill-ready bottles also make wonderful gifts for your favourite barbecue host.
Shop our collection of Argentine wines
Diverse terroirs and a long winemaking tradition add up to Argentina producing a delicious variety of wines. Discover your new favourite today in this well-priced collection, carefully curated by our experts.
Pinot Noir lovers will be drawn to Portillo Pinot Noir. Lively and fruity, it has cherry, cranberry and spice tones that go beautifully with foods ranging from lamb and charcuterie to grilled salmon and empanadas. Argentina is, of course, famous for its Malbecs, so two are included here. Alamos Malbec is an extra-dry red with smoky, earthy notes that match well with its aromas of plum and licorice. Pair it with savoury beef dishes like brisket or peppercorn roast beef. Don David Reserve Malbec is an oak-aged red with plenty of spicy dark fruit flavours and smoky chocolate notes. Try it with casual fare like pulled beef ragu on a bun. This sampling of reds is rounded out by La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon, a smooth, extra-dry wine that has currant and black plum notes followed by a cedar finish.
The region’s fresh white wines are an exciting discovery as well. The sustainably grown Los Cardos Doña Paula Sauvignon Blanc has lively flavours of kiwi, citrus and herbs, followed by a mineral finish. Graffigna Pinot Grigio is a crisp, vibrant sipper that pairs light floral tones with flavours of herbs, mushrooms and citrus. Salud!
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Give the gift of Argentina
Invited to a backyard barbecue? Treat the host to a wonderful bottle from Argentina.
Catena Malbec
Impress with a benchmark Malbec that shines with grilled meats, presented in a wooden Vintages box.
La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon
Wrap up a dry, full-bodied red in a gorgeous bottle box tied with a stylish bow.
Susana Balbo Crios Torrontés
Delight your favourite white wine fan with a stunner crafted with Argentina's signature grape in a pretty gift bag.
