Argentina is the world's fifth largest wine producer, and a major consumer of it own production. Only a minuscule proportion of this wine is actually exported. The Andes, the great mountain range which divides the South American continent, is the most important physical influence on the vineyards. These mountains effectively insulate Argentina's wine producing regions from the cooling effects of the Pacific air, and deprive them of moisture, producing both hot and arid conditions for viticulture. Water for irrigation is plentifully provided by run-off streams from the same mountains. Argentine wine attributes are, therefore, those of hot climate wines, and it is natural that red varieties prosper here. Typical flavors of black fruits, licorice, and spices are commonly found in the exported wines that one will encounter in the US.

Among white varietals, Chardonnay is best adapted to the relatively hot conditions that prevail in Argentina, and it produces generously ripe, fruity wines that tend to the fatter side. Finally, there is Torrontes, an indigenous white grape variety that can produce soft aromatic wines from vineyards at cooler altitudes.

Mendoza is Argentina’s most important wine-producing region. It is located roughly on a parallel with the Maipo Valley to the west, across the Andes in Chile. The best red wines of Mendoza are mostly attributed to Malbec, though Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah also play a part. As much as 90% of exportable fine wine comes from Mendoza.