Argentina 's most important vineyards are in the foothills of the Andes, where the vines are fed by snowmelt from the mountains. The remarkable climate and remoteness of the region ensures a pristine environment and it is these exceptional conditions that have lured the French brothers Jacques and Francois Lurton here. Ten y ears ago they bought 225 ha in Tunyan which is South of Mendoza at 1,100m and Barrancas on the plateau to the East of Mendoza at 600m. At these high altitudes cooler temperatures lengthen the ripening process increasing the complexity and intensity of flavours. As the vineyard area had never been previously cultivated, the soils were totally free from chemicals. Here they produce this exceptional Pinot Gris which retains the smoky, spicy characteristics of the Italian version - where it is known as Pinot Grigio - and shows some of the more floral and gingery characteristics of Tokay Pinot Gris from the Alsace. The healthy climate allows the grape to reach full maturity, adding a viscous, honeyed texture to the impressive palate.

Having forged a successful career in banking, Ortega Gil Fournier left Banco Santander to make wine; he has never looked back and is now considered to be one of the most innovative wine-makers in the region.  Many also regard Torrontes as Argentina’s greatest white grape variety; generally light bodied and with the potential to make intensely aromatic wines. This wine has a truly grapey, peachy aromatic character reminiscent of Muscat and Viognier combined with a mouthwatering freshness on the palate that makes it superb with delicately fragrant or spicy dishes.

Only eight years after a career change saw him leave Banco Santander Ortega Gil Fournier runs four wineries in three different countries. While his other estates flourish it is the O.Fournier winery in Argentina’s Uco Valley which is causing the most excitement. Ortega appointed top winemaker, Spisso, to run the estate from day one. Together they have championed the production of Tempranillo as a high quality varietal and the main constituent in their premium Alfa Crux blend. Early success leads them to believe that the region’s well drained sandy soils, long hot days and cool nights are ideal conditions for Spain’s emblematic varietal. His Urban cuvee is given three months in oak to create an approachable elegant wine with classic flavours of tea leaf, red fruits and a subtle smoky finish.

Pulenta Estate is owned and managed by brothers Hugo and Eduardo. The care and passion they have for their winemaking is obvious at every stage of the process - from hand picking of the grapes through to immaculate presentation. This 100% Malbec from the (2nd) spiritual home of the grape - Mendoza - offers intense nose of ripe red berries, vanilla and chocolate. Beautifully balanced, with great character and a sustained fruit finish. Bloody enjoyable!

In February of this year a distinguished international judging panel, including Jancis Robinson (Master of Wine) and Robert Joseph (chairman-founder of the London International Wine Challenge) gathered in Mendoza’s Park Hyatt Hotel for the inaugural Argentine Wine Awards. Of the 447 entries only 9 were given the highest accolade of a Golden Trophy. This excellent Syrah from the Huanacache region was one of those Trophy winners. The winemaker believes that the vineyard’s location at the foot of the Tontal Hills, 740m above sea level, particularly suits the Syrah grape. The fruit is bright and focused; the palate generous with raspberry and blackberry notes. Tannins are soft and well integrated with a subtle, sweet spiciness reminiscent of the best the Rhone has to offer.

Ten years ago Chile had fewer than 50 acres of Shiraz planted in the entire country. Today this has expanded to 7,000 acres as local growers have realized how successfully this old world grape adapts to their sunny climate. Avia Shiraz is sourced from vineyards in Chile's premium wine region the Central Valley. The wine has a beautiful balance of fully ripe cherry and blackberry fruit with drier earthy notes of leather, herbs and black pepper.

This approachable, everyday red has been sourced from the Central Valley, Chile’s most important wine region and one renowned for the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is a dark ruby red color with strong aromas of blackberry and hints of green pepper. It is lush and round, with ripe black fruit flavors, touches of spice and cocoa, and supple tannins softening nicely with bottle age. A tasty treat for fans of the noblest of noble grapes.

Ben Nacido Cuvee(Viognier Chardonnay) Qupe, Santa Barbera, 2005