San Rafael
The San Rafael wine region is situated in the center of the Mendoza region, in western central Argentina. Vineyards in this region are situated from 1600 to 2300 feet above sea level; vines are planted on various soils, ranging from alluvial to limestone and clay. In general, the soils are poor, which limits yields. Malbec, as you might imagine, is the signature variety from San Rafael; Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc are also important in this semiarid zone that receives very little rain.