Alasdair Nicol does the tango with one of South America’s wine producing gems

Once upon a time, Argentina was the largest wine producing country outside of Europe. But, in those days, the Argentineans were mainly producing cheap, low-quality wines made from local grape varieties, most of which were consumed within their borders.

Nowadays, Argentinean winemaking is a careful and attentive process, with a greater importance placed on grape quality and technique. Sixty per cent of wines produced in Argentina are red and red wine is what puts Argentina on the wine map.

Well known for their perfection of the Malbec grape, Argentineans also produce a plethora of Cabernets and Merlots, alongside small quantities of Pinot Noir. Arguably the best wine producing area of Argentina is the Mendoza region, which still accounts for more than 60 per cent of the country’s total wine production. However, other areas such as Calchaqui Valley in the Salta region are fast gaining a reputation.
Argentinean wines are typically full-bodied, a perfect accompaniment to one of the country’s other great exports: red meat. Next time you find yourself clasping a steak knife try ordering one of these.

The fantastic Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 ($98 from Montrose Fine Wines, 24/F, Wan Chai Central Bldg, 89 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai, 2555 8877; www.montrose.com.hk) is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon from Mendoza that exhibits all the spice, cedar and chocolate characteristics one would expect. A great match with red meat and a must for those looking for full-bodied power.

Salentein Reserve Malbec 2007 ($118 from Kedington Wines, 18/F, Golden Sun Centre, 59-67 Bonham Strand West, Sheung Wan, 2898 9323) epitomises what Mendoza Malbec should be: chocolatey and full-bodied but also very easy drinking with a hint of sweetness. This sweetness comes from the nuances of blackberries and plums that are evident on both the nose and palate.

Luigi Bosca Reserva Pinot Noir 2007 ($189 from International Connoisseurs, 1/F, 42A Hollywood Rd, Central, 2849 7475) is one of the best Pinot Noirs I have tried from Mendoza and is close to the quality of those from Patagonia. A cool climate wine made at altitude, it displays plenty of cherry and strawberry flavours – exactly what you want in a good Pinot.

Norton Privada 2007 ($170 from ASC Fine Wines, Unit 1804, 18/F, Leighton Centre, 77 Leighton Rd, Causeway Bay, 3923 6700; www.asc-wines.com) is a top quality wine from Bodega Norton, one of Argentina’s largest wineries. This blend of Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is wonderfully smooth and easy drinking, and warrants a little breathing before drinking. It’s well worth the wait.

Hess Family Colome 2007 ($264 from ASC Fine Wines, Unit 1804, 18/F, Leighton Centre, 77 Leighton Rd, Causeway Bay, 3923 6700; www.asc-wines.com) is an interesting wine that shows the characteristics of both the old and the new styles of Argentinean winemaking. It is primarily Malbec but also incorporates some Tannat (introduced by the French), Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, which are all evident in the character and finish.