As with some Argentine cuisine, Argentine wine has its roots in Spain. During the Spanish colonisation of the Americas, vine cuttings were brought to Santiago del Estero in 1557. Wine production then spread gradually to other parts of the country. Famous for Malbec, but with such a varied climate, cracking Torrontes, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are also made. Malbec reds are probably the number one choice in the off-trade market today and offer wines with depth and character along with bags of fruit for great enjoyment with food. The higher priced wines are now competing head-on with those from Bordeaux and are well worth spending the extra few pounds a bottle to experience with a fine steak. Many regional wines from within the overall Mendoza classification are simply stunning! Here's more history of wine from Argentina and a map of the main wine producing areas of Argentina.