Cafayate is a region in the north-west of Argentina in the province of Salta. . From the beautiful landscape, breathtaking mountains and hot temperatures we are given one of the country’s most prominent wine producing areas. After Mendoza, Salta is the next big wine area of Argentina and Cafayate is the most famous region within Salta. It is situated in the Chalaquies Valley. Cafayate lies 1,683 meters above sea level, Salta being the owner of some of the highest vineyards in the world.
Cafayate has a great history involving the Spanish conquistadores and a tribe of aborigines. The language spoken is this region was known as Cacan and the tribe was known as the Diaguita-Calchaqui group. Cafayate do their best to conserve the original colonial architectural characteristics.
In wine producing we like to talk about terroir. This includes anything from the consistency of the soil, quantity of rainfall per year, light, wind and temperature. Cafayate has low-humidity and mild weather in the valleys. It has a nice temperature differential, which means that the days are warm and nights are cool, and the melting runoff water from the mountains help hydrate the vines.
The most cultivated wine in the area is Torrontes. This is the flagship white wine of Argentina and is great with ceviche or sorbets. The Torrontes that is harvested in Cafayate is mostly known for its perfumed aroma, fruity palate and light, refreshing acidity. In the reds, Malbec is the most prominent, along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Tannat being produced.
Things to do in Cafayate:
Most bodegas in the area will offer free wine tasting tours of the cellars. Some of the wineries in the area are: Bodega El Esteco, Finca Las Nubes, Bodega Nanni, Vasijas Secreta and Bodega La Rosa.
Cafayate is also home to the famous ‘Tren a las nubes’.
Salta is without a doubt one of the places on my list to visit, but many are unable to do so due the immense size of Argentina. If you are one of these people, check out the wine tastings being offered in Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital city!
Incoming search terms:
- Bodega El Esteco Cafayate