It also draws in the majority of San Rafael’s wine tourists, welcoming an impressive 85,000 people a year, and keeps hundreds of growers in the region financially afloat by purchasing their grapes. The family-owned winery was founded by an Italian immigrant in 1928 and is today one of Mendoza’s most prolific wine producers in both the local and export markets, carrying San Rafael’s flag with it everywhere the wines travel. The one big exception is Bianchi - the biggest winery in the region and the poster child for San Rafael. San Rafael is one of only two DOCs in Argentina (the other being Luján de Cuyo DOC) and although producers have tried to put Mendoza’s southernmost region on the map, it is often overlooked. There are over 500 hectares of Chenin Blanc planted here also, but this is mainly for sparkling wine. ![]() While Malbec is king, I’m actually most excited by Cabernet Sauvignon (the third most-planted variety), which is typically made into a supple wine with juicy red fruit and pink peppercorn spice. Red varieties dominate San Rafael’s vineyards, along with some pink Criolla varieties. This fact, along with the predominantly sandy soils, means it is best for everyday easy-drinking wines. As well as providing a buffet of water sports, the Atuel and Diamante rivers are essential irrigation lifelines in this arid wine region, which is situated in a rain shadow cast by the Andes mountains.ĭespite being located further south than the Uco Valley, its lower altitude means San Rafael tends to be typically warmer. The Canyon is, in fact, one of the main draws to the region with its river rapids, sand dunes and mountains offering plenty of opportunities for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers to explore. Guide to San Rafael & General Alvear wine regions SAN RAFAEL Hectares planted: 13,016 Producers: 2,384 vineyards Altitude: 450 to 950 m.a.s.lĪs you travel the 230 kilometres from the capital of Mendoza to the small city of San Rafael, you’ll pass by the beautiful Atuel Canyon. Guide to San Rafael and General Alvear Notable producers Quick guide to San Rafael and General Alvear Best wines to try Map of San Rafael and General Alvear Get to grips with the wine regions of San Rafael and General Alvear in our ultimate guide to these lesser-known wine regions in southern Mendoza.
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