Sweeping down the east flank of the mighty Andes, Argentina is the largest wine producer in South America. The lofty altitudes of the Andean foothills give Argentina the highest altitude vineyards in the world (up to 3000m!) with amplified light intensity and solar radiation from being so much closer to the sun, and an effortless acidity from the cool air of the mountainous heights. Thrust into fame via Malbec, transplanted from France, Argentina’s dry, desert climate and pure climate allow many other grapes to excel, like Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Torrontés. Argentina has a long viticultural tradition, dating back to the 1500s. It is currently the 5th most prominent wine producing country in the world, centered around Mendoza.