If you like wine... .

Did you know that Argentina is one of the largest wine producers in the world (if you like exact numbers, I believe it´s ranked fifth)? Well not really surprising, because what goes better paired with a nice steak than a good glass of red wine? Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Tempranillo are just a few varieties that develop exceptionally well in our soils. Some people have compared them as being equal in quality (if not even superior... sorry!) to the best vineyards in France.

Most wineries are located in Mendoza, a province that borders the Andes, but there are others to the north in Salta and some others well in the south in Rio Negro. Honestly, in my personal opinion the climate in Mendoza can hardly be beaten in terms of producing a rich quality wine. The big exception might be the Syrah, a grape that grows excellent in Salta. The vineyards lay at an average of 2000-3000 ft high and that allows for lots of heat during the day but also a cool night, essential in order for the grape to retain sugar and sweetness.

If you are in Mendoza, don´t miss a wine tour. Many hotels organize these wine tasting tours as half day or full day excursions. If you would like to devote more time to discover the different varieties, you can rent a remis, a car with a driver that charges by the hour or even by the day (this being the best option) and visit Bodegas that open to the general public.

Some of the bodegas (vineyards) in Mendoza that open to general public are:

* Familia Zuccardi: located in valle de Uco, offers wine tastings and it also has a restaurant open for lunch and dinner

* Trapiche: located in Coquimbito, Maipu. Offers wine tastings

*Terrazas de los Andes: in Lujan de Cuyo, has one of the oldest Malbec vineyards (from 1929). It offers wine tastings, a small restaurant (finger food) but also the possibility of staying overnight (6 rooms)

*Salentein: in Valle de Uco, offers not only the traditional wine tastings but also arts and architecture tours, a half day with the resident enologist, cooking classes, and horseback riding. Nearby there are also accomodations with 16 rooms.

This is just a small selection of literally thousands of wineries... you´ll definitely experience the torture of having to choose!

Even though wine consumption is alive and well, Argentineans used to drink much more per capita in the past. Local consumption has been steadily falling in favour of beer. Maybe it is because it is cheaper, or maybe it´s more hip between the younger generations. I know Quilmes, the big brewing company, has been doing some excellent and funny ads oriented towards the younger. Whereas I have hardly seen any publicity for wine whatsoever.

While in Mendoza, there´s so much more to do: whitewater rafting, horseback riding, mountain climbing, trout fishing.... I´ll write about that in another entry.

Now enjoy the peacefulness of a hot summer day, sitting in the cool shade of a vine, enjoying a great Angus steak with a little greens and cheese salad, and sipping a beautiful deep red Merlot, aromas ranging from framboise to a hint of vanilla.... life can be wonderful. Just beware of the old saying: In vino veritas! (In the wine lies the truth).