Truth be told, it was not always our loss. Political instability and economic isolationism ensured that the Argentine wine industry operated at a somewhat low level of quality. For decades, it focused on non-distinct wines made for a more-or-less captive domestic crowd.
The 1980s saw improving political and economic conditions. Since then, Argentina’s wine industry has slowly led itself out of its dark age, consistently improving quality, upgrading technology and increasing understanding in the vineyards and wine cellars. Foreign investment in technology and the helping hand of itinerant “flying winemakers” have given quality a major boost, as well.
Though Argentines still drink the lion’s share of their wines, the United States is now the biggest buyer of Argentina’s wines.
Recipes to Pair with Argentine Wines (particularly Malbec):