Patagonia wine region

Travel Guide to Patagonia Wine Region

Argentina’s Southernmost Wine Region     

Patagonia wine region of Argentina is located closer to the Andes Mountains than it is to the Atlantic Ocean, and at a far lower altitude than other wine regions of Argentina. This unique location gives the region a cool and dry climate that is perfect for the production of red wines made from Pinot Noir and Malbec grape varietals. Patagonia wine region is predominantly a desert and as a result of this, viticulture is possible only in areas near rivers running from the Andes Mountains that provide irrigation to the vines. The desert climate provides cold nights and warm days that make for a long growing season during which grapes are slowly ripened. This slow ripening process allows the grapes to develop a rich character and perfect levels of acidity.

The climate of the Patagonia wine region can be described as warm, continental, and semi-arid. The region receives less than 200 mm of annual rainfall. During the ripening months, the region experiences a dramatic temperature range.

Patagonian soils that are most suitable for viticulture are found in the northern parts of the region, near the Negro River, where they are formed with volcanic rock. Moving towards the south of the region the soils become arider and stonier with broad expanses of rounded pebbles. This terroir is known as the grave Patagonia and is most often found where the ground is relatively level.

Rio Nego and Neuquen  

The two most well-known areas of viticulture in Patagonia wine region are Rio Negro and Neuquen. The wines produced in these two regions are traditionally European in character. Neuquen is located in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, while Rio Negro is located higher up on Patagonia mountains slopes.

The Complex and Characterful Wines of Patagonia Wine Region

There are a number of factors which mean that the wines produced in Patagonia wine region are some of the most complex, characterful and excellent Argentinian wines. These factors include the climate, temperature range, strong winds and long periods of sunshine during the ripening season.

The red wines of the Patagonia wine region are complex with intense colors and excellent typicity. Wine lovers are giving increased attention to the La Pampa area of Patagonia where excellent Cabernet Franc wines are produced. These wines have added to the catalogue of diverse wines produced in Patagonia and have hints of red fruit, elegant tannins, and tasting notes of pepper. The Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon red wines of Patagonia are grown at higher altitudes in the region where the soils are stony and irrigation levels are higher. This allows for the production of fruitier wines with intense colors and refined tannins. Patagonian Merlot wines are described as smooth and balanced with intense aromas. The Malbec of the region has an intense ruby color with aromas of black cherries, lavender, biscuits, and spices. The palate of the wine is dry with refreshing acidity, a medium body, balanced flavors, and ripe tannins.

The white wines have a good structure, perfect complexity, natural levels of acidity, and aromas that highlight the mineral notes of the wine.  The most popular Patagonian white wines are made from Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling grape varietals. These grapes allow the wine to showcase the freshness of the climate of the Patagonia region. The Sauvignon Blanc wines of the region are of excellent and high quality while the Chardonnay is a fruity aroma with a good and harmonic body.

Patagonian Pinot Noir grapes are used to produce excellent sparkling wines known for their outstanding elegance.

Patagonia Wine Region Map

Where to Go in Patagonia Wine Region

Puerto Madryn - The City on the Shores of Gulfo Neuvo

Puerto Madryn is a picturesque city located on the shores of the beautiful Neuvo Gulf – a large deep-water bay on the Atlantic Ocean. This city is a popular holiday destination during the summer months because of its expanse of endless beaches. Despite the beauty of the beaches, the water is freezing cold and the wind can be extremely strong.  Some of the most popular attractions in Puetro Madryn are the Punto Loma sea lion reserve, the Punta Tombo National Park, the Punta Tombo penguin colony and the Puerto Madryn EcoCentro.

Ushuaia - The Adventure Hub of Patagonia wine region

The port of Ushuaia is located at the foot of the Martial Mountain Range and is considered by many to be the adventure capital of the Patagonia wine region.  Ushuaia is where Patagonia Mountains meet the Beagle Channel at the southernmost point of Tierra del Fuego Island. The unique location of this port allows visitors to enjoy all the wonders of the sea, mountains and forests all in one location. For nature lovers, Ushuaia is the perfect escape from the city and an excellent introduction to the natural beauty of Patagonia wine region and Argentina itself.

El Calafate - The Gateway to the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares

El Calafate is a small town in Patagonia wine region that is mainly frequented by tourists visiting the nearby Parque Nacional Los Glaciares, which is Argentina’s Glacier National Park. Although the town of El Calafate is itself very small, there are a number of attractions within the town and locals offer expeditions and tours to the National Park. The most popular activities to take part in when visiting El Calafate are visiting the Perito Moreno Glacier in the Glacier National Park, hiking the glaciers, exploring the village of El Chalten and experiencing the La Leona Petrified Forest.

The world’s Most Breathtaking Glacier

The Perito Moreno Glacier is an incredible mass of ice that spans over 121 square miles and continues to grow. For visitors to Patagonia, this glacier is an absolute must-see as it towers above the Los Glaciares National Park shining with bright white and blue shades.

The Perito Moreno Glacier is 19 miles long and rises to 240 ft above the water. It forms part of an ice field that stretches across Argentina and Chile. This magnificent glacier was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.

The Enthralling Natural Beauty of Patagonia Wine Region

Patagonia wine region is widely considered to be one of the most remote and spectacularly beautiful regions in the world. This breathtakingly beautiful region encompasses the best of southern Argentina and Chile. The environment is defined by extremes from glaciers to deserts. Visit Patagonia and fall in love with this natural wonder of the world.

Torres del Paine National Park  

Lose yourself in the magical nature of the Torres del Paine National Park 

The Torres del Paine National Park is one of nature’s most wonderful miracles in Patagonia wine region. The landscape of the Torres del Paine National Park is characterized by bright blue and turquoise waters, glaciers, and towering granite peaks. So magnificent are these features that the Torres del Paine National Park is considered the eighth wonder of the world. The best way to explore this national park is by trekking through the landscape with nothing more than a backpack and comfortable shoes. During the summer months, the national park experiences up to 17 hours of sunlight per day, allowing for plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. While walking through the park there is also a great chance to spot indigenous wildlife such as foxes, Andean deer, and even the reclusive Puma.

Parque Nacional Los Glaciares  

The Parque Nacional Los Glaciares is located in the part of Patagonia known as the Austral Andes, in the southwest of Argentina. The natural beauty of this area has resulted in it being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981. Visiting the park allows one access to the incredible Patagonia mountains, lakes and woods of the area. Inside the park lies a large portion of the Andes Mountain Range that is almost permanently under the ice. The name of the Parque Nacional Los Glaciares comes from the many glaciers in the park that form part of the Ice Caps – the largest continental body of ice after Antarctica. Visitors to the park are free to enjoy the incredible natural landscape and view the natural flora and fauna.

General Carrera Lake     

The most picturesque body of water in Patagonia

The General Carrera Lake is by far the most beautiful body of water in all of Patagonia wine region. This lake is so large that spans both Argentina and Chile. On the Argentinian side, the lake is also often referred to as Lake Buenos Aires. The total surface area of the General Carrera Lake is 1 850 square kilometres, making it the fourth-largest lake in Argentina. At its deepest point, it plunges to 586 meters deep. The General Carrera Lake provides a range of activities for visitors including fishing, kayaking, and hiking. For those looking to take a longer trip to the lake, there are a number of various accommodation facilities available from camping to five-star rooms.

Find the best Patagonia Wine Tour Guides and embark on an unforgettable exploration in Patagonia.

Gastronomy in Patagonia Wine Region

Besides the natural beauty of the Patagonia wine region, the local cuisine is by far one of the greatest highlights of the place. The local cuisine of Patagonia has nuances and is an incredible blend of indigenous and international flavors. The local dishes are not only mouthwatering but are also wholesome and heartwarming – the perfect feast in the perfect environment.

Asado - The National Dish of Argentina

Asado is considered by many to be the national dish of Argentina and is also referred to as Parrillada. The origins of Asado stretch back to the gauchos or cowboys of the Patagonian region. This dish is a barbecue that usually consists of beef, sausages, pork ribs, and sweetbreads that are served hot off the fire. In some parts of Patagonia, the Asado is a whole lamb or pig that is roasted over an open fire. Asado is the perfect local dish to enjoy relaxing in the beautiful great Patagonian outdoors on a long summer night.

Cordero al Palo - The most famous dish of Patagonia wine region

By far the most famous dish in the Patagonia wine region is Cordero al Palo. Cordero al Palo is a spit roast lamb that is cooked over an open fire for many hours until the outside if deliciously crisp and the meat is soft enough to fall off the bone. The way in which the meat is cooked over an open flame, gives the meat a smokey flavour. This dish is a must try for any meat lover who is fortunate enough to spend time in the Patagonian region.

Chupe de Centolla - Patagonian King Crab Pie

If you are looking to take a break from the delicious meats of Patagonia, then Chupe de Centolla is the perfect dish to try. Chupe de Centolla is a pie made of Patagonian king crab. The crab is cooked in a delicious seafood stew with breadcrumbs similar to a chowder. This stew is then covered with gratinated cheese and baked until warm and bubbly.