When wine enthusiasts discuss what makes South American wines special, the conversation inevitably turns to altitude. At Borravino Wine Tours, we’ve spent over a decade guiding visitors through the high-altitude vineyards of Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, witnessing firsthand how elevation transforms these remarkable wines.
But what exactly happens to grapes grown at 3,000, 4,000, or even 5,000 feet above sea level? And why does Mendoza—with vineyards among the highest in the world—produce such distinctive expressions of Malbec and other varietals? Let’s explore the fascinating science behind high-altitude winemaking.
The Science of Altitude in Winemaking
Vineyards at higher elevations experience three critical factors that profoundly influence wine character:
1. Intense Sunlight
For every 1,000 feet of elevation gain, UV radiation increases by approximately 10-12%. In Mendoza’s Uco Valley, where vineyards sit at 3,000-5,000 feet above sea level, grapes receive significantly more intense sunlight than those at sea level.
This increased UV exposure triggers the production of protective phenolic compounds in grape skins, resulting in:
- Deeper color intensity
- More concentrated flavors
- Higher levels of antioxidants
- Thicker grape skins, contributing to structured tannins
2. Dramatic Temperature Variation
One of the most significant benefits of altitude is the pronounced diurnal temperature shift—the difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures. In Mendoza’s high-altitude vineyards, this variation can reach 15°C (59°F) during the growing season.
These temperature swings create a perfect balance in the grapes:
- Warm days promote sugar development and phenolic ripeness
- Cool nights preserve natural acidity and aromatic compounds
- Extended ripening periods allow for flavor complexity without excessive alcohol
3. Soil Composition
High-altitude vineyards often feature poor, well-draining soils with distinctive mineral compositions. In the Uco Valley, you’ll find alluvial soils with varying amounts of sand, clay, and limestone, often dotted with river stones that store heat during the day and release it at night.
These challenging growing conditions force vines to struggle, resulting in:
- Lower yields with more concentrated flavors
- Deeper root systems that access diverse mineral components
- Distinctive mineral expressions in the finished wines
Tasting the Difference: Altitude Expressions in South American Wines
Malbec: Argentina’s Altitude Champion
Perhaps no grape demonstrates the altitude effect more dramatically than Malbec. On our Mendoza wine tours, we take guests to experience Malbec at three distinct elevations:
Luján de Cuyo (3,000 feet)
Often called the “traditional home of Malbec,” these vineyards produce wines with:
- Plum and black fruit flavors
- Velvety texture
- Moderate acidity
- Classic Malbec expression
Agrelo (3,600 feet)
This mid-altitude region creates balanced wines with:
- More pronounced floral notes
- Firmer structure
- Enhanced spice characteristics
Uco Valley (4,000-5,000 feet)
At these extreme elevations, Malbec transforms dramatically:
- Intense violet and floral aromatics
- Vibrant acidity
- Pronounced mineral character
- Structured tannins with aging potential
- Often blueberry and blackberry notes rather than plum
Beyond Malbec: Other Altitude-Loving Varietals
While Malbec may be the poster child for high-altitude winemaking in South America, several other varietals thrive in these elevated vineyards:
Torrontés in Salta (Up to 10,000 feet)
In the extreme northern vineyards of Cafayate and Cachi, Torrontés reaches some of the world’s highest elevations, developing:
- Intensely aromatic profiles with jasmine, peach, and citrus
- Remarkable acidity that balances its aromatic intensity
- Distinctive mineral backbone
Cabernet Franc in the Uco Valley
This Bordeaux variety has found a spectacular second home in Argentina’s high-altitude regions, producing wines with:
- Vibrant red fruit and bell pepper notes
- Silky tannins
- Elegant structure and aging potential
Chardonnay in Chile’s Casablanca Valley
While not as extreme in elevation as Mendoza, the cool climate and moderate altitude of Casablanca create Chardonnay with:
- Bright citrus and green apple notes
- Crisp acidity
- Elegant mineral character
Experience the Altitude Effect with Borravino Wine Tours
At Borravino Wine Tours, we’ve designed our signature “Altitude Experience” tour to showcase this remarkable phenomenon. Guests journey from Luján de Cuyo through Agrelo and into the Uco Valley, experiencing firsthand how each 500-foot increase in elevation transforms the same grape varieties.
One highlight of our Mendoza tours is the exclusive vertical altitude tasting at Bodega Jean Busquet, where you’ll sample Malbecs from three different elevations, all crafted by the same winemaker using identical techniques. The only variable? Altitude.
This experience offers a rare opportunity to isolate and understand the profound impact elevation has on wine character—a lesson that will forever change how you think about terroir.
Beyond Argentina: Altitude in Chile and Uruguay
While Argentina may claim the highest commercial vineyards in the world, both Chile and Uruguay offer fascinating studies in elevation’s influence:
Chile’s Diverse Elevations
From the coastal vineyards of Casablanca to the foothills of the Andes in Maipo and Colchagua, our Chilean wine tours explore how moderate elevation combined with proximity to either the Pacific Ocean or the Andes Mountains creates distinctive microclimates ideal for varieties like Carmenere, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Uruguay’s Moderate Elevations
Though not as extreme in altitude as its neighbors, Uruguay’s rolling hills and granite-based soils in regions like Canelones and Maldonado create ideal conditions for Tannat and emerging varietals like Albariño, which we explore in depth on our Uruguay wine experiences.
Conclusion: The High-Altitude Advantage
The next time you enjoy a glass of South American wine, take a moment to consider the remarkable influence of altitude. These elevated vineyards create wines of extraordinary character—wines that could not exist anywhere else in the world.
At Borravino Wine Tours, we believe understanding these geographical influences deepens appreciation for what’s in your glass. Our tailored wine experiences across Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, and now Spain are designed to reveal these connections between place and taste.
Ready to experience the altitude effect firsthand? Contact us to plan your South American wine adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About High-Altitude Wines
What is considered “high-altitude” in winemaking?
While definitions vary, vineyards above 2,500 feet (762 meters) are generally considered high-altitude. In South America, commercial vineyards can reach up to 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) above sea level in regions like Salta, Argentina.
Do all grape varieties benefit from high altitude?
No. Some varieties thrive at elevation while others struggle. Thick-skinned varieties like Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Torrontés excel at high altitudes, while others may struggle to reach full ripeness in these conditions.
How does altitude affect aging potential?
High-altitude wines typically have more pronounced acidity and structured tannins, two key components for aging potential. Many premium high-altitude Malbecs and Cabernet Sauvignons from Mendoza can age beautifully for 10-15 years or more.
What food pairs best with high-altitude wines?
The vibrant acidity and structured tannins of high-altitude reds make them excellent partners for Argentina’s famous beef, especially when prepared as a traditional asado. The aromatic intensity and acidity of high-altitude whites like Torrontés pair beautifully with spicy cuisines and seafood.