This region is considered to be the very home of Malbec, particulary the sub-regions of Agrelo and Perdriel, where the cost of land equates to the quality of the grapes.  These two sub-regions epitomise "terroir" made for the Malbec grape.  They are about a thirty minute drive from the City Centre.

Temperature range

Wide. Average 15C. The region covers three brackets in the Winkler Scale. 2000 degree days in the coolest zones. 2,100 in-between and 2,160 in the warmest areas.

Altitude: 750m to 1,060.

Soils

Shallow and loam-clayish, alkaline and saline in the North. Further South the soil is gravely due to minerals deposited by water from the Andes. The ground is well drained and organically poor.

Grape varieties

 Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Barbera, Sangiovese and Tannat. Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Semillon, Tocai Friulano, Ugni Blanc and Riesling.

The quality level of the Malbec is unique in this region. In the higher zones it has a deep aroma and powerful palate. In the lower areas it has a lighter colour and body. The Chardonnay from Vistalba and Syrah from Lujan de Cuyo are also worth mentioning.

Important wineries: There are at least 500 wineries in the area. Varying from enormous operations with industrial capacities to small, family-run, artisan affairs. There has been much foreign investment in recent years. Among the best known are Catena Zapata, Chandon, Weinert, Terrazas, Nieto Senetiner, Norton, Alta Vista , Trapiche, Doña Paula, Fabre Montmayou, Ruca Malen, Dolium, Septima, Lagarde, Tapiz, Benegas.