The annual Vinos y Bodegas (wines and wineries) exhibition in Buenos Aires, the pinnacle wine event in a country of self-confessed wine fanatics, makes an enjoyable diversion for would-be connoisseurs during an Argentina vacation.
The exhibition runs during the first two weeks of September and involves hundreds of the country’s best-known wine makers who proudly display their finest produce to expert tasters and wine loving members of the public.
Wine tastings at the annual Vinos y Bodegas exhibition in Buenos Aires, Argentina
The event also includes a wealth of information on the various wine regions of Argentina, methods of cultivation and guidance on tasting techniques. The annual event is made up of two parts: a private, trade-only session, followed by a public session, which carries an AR$60 entrance ticket.
But for wine-fans who travel to Argentina during the rest of the year, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the best of the country’s vineyards in some of Buenos Aires’ many excellent wine bars, cellars and vinotecas, cellars operated by the vineyards themselves.
One of the most popular, Gran Bar Danzon, is famous for its comfortable, relaxed environment packed with deep sofas, a soft and intimate ambiance and its comprehensive selection of wines and spirits, plus a wide menu of sushi and Asian-inspired meals.
One of the trendier, and therefore pricier, nightspots in town, it is worth making advance reservations for bigger groups. Libertad 1161, Tel: 4811 1108.
Meanwhile the Lobby Wine Bar is another classy choice for wine-fans wanting to explore the finest Argentine labels. In the bustling Palermo district, the bottle-lined Lobby is a stylish hangout for hip locals with hundreds of wines on the list, plus a varied menu. Nicaragua 5944, Tel: 4770 9335.
For a unique wine tasting experience, head to Casa Coupage, where the venue is actually within the owners’ house and where expert guidance is offered to help develop the palate and learn to recognize the subtleties between various wines. A social club is held on Wednesdays and private tasting sessions can also be arranged. Guernes 4382, Tel: 4833 6354.
Finally, for those with a serious wine interest (and a serious budget to match) the classy and up market Terroir has a vast collection, where tastings can be arranged from AR$250 per person. Visitors are encouraged to do their homework first and arrive well informed. Definitely not for the wine novices! Buschiazzo 3040, Tel: 4778-3443.
Alternatively, for a less do-it-yourself approach, visitors on Argentina vacation packages can easily take advantage of Argentina wine tours for a convenient and informative introduction to some of the country’s best wine producing regions of Mendoza, Santiago and Colchagua Valley.
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