Salta

Salta

Salta, in Argentina's far northwest, is a land of extremes. Home to some of the highest-altitude commercial vineyards on Earth, this region produces wines of incredible intensity, aromatic complexity, and vibrant acidity. While Malbec thrives here, Salta is most famous for Torrontés, Argentina's signature white grape, which reaches its most expressive and elegant peak in these sun-drenched, high-altitude valleys.

Food Pairings with Salta Wines

Torrontés: A perfect match for spicy and aromatic dishes, such as Thai green curry, Indian cuisine, or empanadas salteñas.
High-Altitude Malbec/Tannat: Pair with hearty, flavorful dishes like grilled lamb, beef stews, or game meats.

Geography & Climate

The vineyards of Salta are planted at staggering altitudes, typically between 1,700 and 3,100 meters (5,600 to 10,200 feet) above sea level. This extreme elevation is the defining feature of its terroir. The thin, dry air and intense solar radiation allow grapes to develop thick skins, leading to concentrated flavor and color.

At the same time, the dramatic temperature drop at night—often more than 20°C (35°F)—preserves natural acidity, giving the wines incredible freshness and balance. The climate is arid and desert-like, with very little rainfall, making viticulture reliant on irrigation from mountain rivers.

History of Salta

Like Mendoza, Salta’s winemaking history was initiated by Spanish missionaries in the 18th century. For a long time, its isolation meant that wines were produced for local consumption. The region’s modern wine identity began to take shape in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as pioneering winemakers recognized the unique potential of its extreme altitude.

They proved that these heights could produce not just high-quality grapes but wines with a unique profile—intensely aromatic whites and powerfully structured reds—that couldn’t be replicated anywhere else.

Subregions and Appellations

The most important sub-region within Salta and the heart of its premium wine production. It is particularly famous for its exceptional Torrontés.

Home to some of the very highest vineyards, including those of Bodega Colomé, pushing the limits of viticulture at over 3,000 meters.

A series of valleys that cross Salta, Tucumán, and Catamarca provinces, known for their dramatic landscapes and ancient vines.

Signature Wine Styles

Red

The high altitude produces powerful and concentrated red wines. Malbec from Salta is deeply colored, with ripe black fruit flavors and a firm tannic structure. Tannat, a thick-skinned grape, also thrives here, producing robust, age-worthy wines with dark, spicy character.

White

Salta is synonymous with Torrontés. Here, the grape yields intensely aromatic, dry white wines with notes of jasmine, rose petal, orange blossom, and white peach, all balanced by crisp, refreshing acidity. It is considered the finest expression of the variety in the world.

Notable Producers

Bodega Colomé

Owner of some of the world's highest vineyards, known for its iconic high-altitude Malbec and Torrontés.

El Porvenir de Cafayate

A family-owned winery producing high-quality, terroir-driven wines from the Cafayate Valley.

Susana Balbo Wines

Founded by Argentina's first female winemaker, producing elegant and expressive wines, including a benchmark Torrontés.

Bodega El Esteco

One of the oldest and most established wineries in Cafayate, known for a wide range of high-quality wines.

Fun Facts about Salta

Salta is home to the Altura Máxima vineyard, owned by Bodega Colomé, which sits at an incredible 3,111 meters (10,207 feet).
The region's indigenous heritage, from the Incas and Diaguitas, is still a strong part of its culture.
Torrontés is a grape variety found almost exclusively in Argentina.
The Calchaquí Valley is one of the longest continuous river valleys in Argentina, stretching over 270 km.

Quick Facts

Key Grape Varieties

Red Varieties

White Varieties