Ultimate Guide To Argentine Tannat Wines

If you like rich wines like I do, you will love Argentina’s Tannat.

This grape is originally from Madiran in South West France, and is currently Uruguay’s flagship. It is also grown in Australia, Brazil, Italy, Peru, US and Argentina, among other regions.

Since a region’s climate, soils and altitude, among other factors, influence the fruit and provides wine with a unique character, I can’t tell you which country produces the best Tannat (or can I..?). So, instead, let me tell you what you can expect from Tannat wines made in Argentina.

HIGH-ALTITUDE VINEYARDS

Tannat is primarily cultivated and produced in two regions: the Calchaquí Valleys in Northern Argentina and the Cuyo wine region. With over 2,500 acres dedicated to Tannat, it accounts for less than 1% of the country’s total red grapes.

In Uruguay and France Tannat vines grow at a very low elevation. Whereas in Argentina this grape can be found at over 3,280 feet above sea level in average.

Among the Calchaquí Valleys rocky and colorful mountains, there is a higher concentration of Tannat. In Cafayate there are over 617 acres of this grape planted at 5,522 f.a.s.l.

In Cuyo, Tannat is primarily cultivated in Mendoza and San Juan. Wineries in Luján de Cuyo, Uco Valley and Mendoza’s Eastern region make high-end wines.

WHAT DOES TANNAT WINE TASTE LIKE?

In both regions, Cuyo and the Calchaquí Valleys, the hot weather and desertic climate, along with high altitude and diurnal temperature variation, allow the grape to reach complete ripeness.

The warmer daytime temperatures in the Northern region lead to wines that are less astringent than those produced in Mendoza.

Mendoza’s Tannat are known for their black fruit aromas, such as dark cherry, along with subtle herbal notes. In contrast, Tannat wines from Cafayate are distinguished by their nutty, minty, and spicy aromas.

Because Tannat could be opulent, high acidic and overly astringent, winemakers often age it in oak barrels to balance its flavors and soften its tannins. I prefer it when is made that way, otherwise, the high astringency might be slightly unpleasant for some consumers. However, unoaked or lightly oaked Tannat can be delightful, as well.

Usually, Tannat is blend with Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc because it provides structure and nerve. Yet, some winemakers make single varietal Tannat wines, as well —those are my favorites!

TANNAT REVIEWS

I made a list of Tannat wines that I recently had, most of them are easy to find in the U.S.

DECERO MINI EDICIONES TANNAT REMOLINOS VINEYARD 2013: Grapes for this wine are sourced from the renowned Geographical Indication Agrelo, at 3,500 feet above sea level. I had this wine for the first time at a tasting in the modern winery. I immediately fell in love with it. It’s earthy, with aromas of plums and cherries. On the palate, it’s rich and well balanced, with hints of tobacco and leather. It has silky tannins due to maturation in oak barrels for 16 months. Long and delicious finish! Note: If you can’t find this bottling, I suggest purchasing Decero Petit Verdot, which is also delicious.

EL ESTECO DON DAVID RESERVE TANNAT 2017: This Tannat is from the Calchaquí Valleys, home to the world’s highest vineyards. There, Tannat grows at 5,500 f.a.s.l. Thicker skin due to higher altitude might cause its intense dark color. Aromas of red and dark fruits are mixed with spices and notes of green bell pepper. Chocolate and vanilla adds complexity to its character. Medium to full-bodied, this is a food-friendly Tannat that pairs well with lamb.

DOS MINAS TANNAT 2017: Made in the Calchaquí Valleys, this is a leaner and younger Tannat. The name, Dos Minas is slang for “two girls”. The winery was founded by two women, one from Argentina and the other from California, with the goal of making younger and fruity wines. Taking advantage of Salta’s warm climate, they made an unoaked Tannat that is easy to drink. Good for barbecue on the patio during hot summers! It has varietal expression (red fruits, mint, spices), but this is a fresher style. More aromatic, less astringent and it has higher acidity. Light to medium-bodied.

As you can see distinct styles of Tannat are made throughout Argentina’s wine regions. Would you purchase any of these bottles?

In 2024, we will write about Uruguayan Tannat! Subscribe to our newsletter to learn about our latest posts.