Now In Korea
Mendoza Crafts Malbecs in the Shadow of the Andes
Creatrip Team
2 months ago
Vinexpo Explorer Mendoza 2025, the first Vinexpo held in South America, gathered 150 wineries from 20 countries and about 80 buyers for over 1,100 business meetings in Mendoza, Argentina — long known as the heart of Malbec production. Mendoza’s high-altitude vineyards (700–1,500m) benefit from melted-Andes irrigation, dry continental climate, large day–night temperature swings, and 300+ sunny days, producing Malbecs with deep color, rich fruit aromas, and soft tannins that pair well with Korean dishes like hanwoo (Korean beef) and samgyeopsal (pork belly). The event showcased both famous estates (e.g., Catena Zapata) and many small family wineries focused on quality and distinctive styles. Globally, consumer tastes are shifting toward lighter, fresher wines — whites and sparkling — and even reds with brighter acidity and less oak influence; Mendoza producers are responding by making fresher high-altitude Malbecs and exploring varieties like Torrontés as potential white stars. Despite challenges entering the Korean market (where whites and sparklings are trending and Argentina is mainly known for Malbec), Mendoza’s wines retain unique depth and warmth shaped by Andes sunshine and wind, and the expo emphasized building market connections as much as wine culture.
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