“Argentinian wines are there to stay”

- Being a Master Sommelier, winner of several contests and one of the most famous sommeliers of the world, how is your general view about Argentinian wines?

The wines are ripe and full of flavors. The progress has been incredible in the last ten years.

- Some say that, due to the fast growth of Argentina in various markets, such us USA, its success will not last. Do you think this “Argentina’s hit” will disappear soon or will endure after the boom?

The enthusiasm will drop a little bit and that is normal. After a big surge you always have a sort of realignment. However, Argentinian wines are there to stay. The best ones are high quality and they will become classic.

- What characteristics of Argentinian wines would you consider as its weak and strong points?

Ripeness, great aromas and smooth texture are the strengths, the weakness could be that some wines are too powerful and now some people are looking for lightness.

- How do you prefer Malbec, single or blended?

Both if it is well made.

- Is there a grape variety you have tasted that can become the future flagship for Argentina?

I will tell you after my trip/visit but you don’t need another flagship grape.

- So, do you think it is time to go further, experiencing more with blends and different terroirs?

It is dangerous to rely on one grape for the long term. Malbec has been great and is still great but what you need is an Iconic wine; a sort of “Grange of Argentina” (Catena with its top wines is almost there).

- As more small wineries are exporting to UK since last year, changing prices and introducing Argentinian wines in wine shops instead of supermarkets, Do you consider reasonable their prices? How much money is an UK consumer willing to pay for this product?

I think people in the UK are just starting to accept that Argentinian wines can be priced as some of the best wines from leading wine producing countries. It is why you need one or more Iconic wines to pull the price up. Catena has partly succeeded but not completely yet.

- Do you like Torrontés? And how is its performance in the UK?

Personally I like Torrontés very much. It is successful in the UK because people now want fruity wines not oaky white wines. Albarino, Verdejo from Spain are very popular and so is Torrontés. Aromatic wines are easy to sell. In addition, Torrontés is not heavy. It is a sort of Viognier but without steroid!

- What do you expect to experience during the next Argentina Wine Awards?

Discover some great wines and learn a lot about your wine industry. Eat some delicious beef and admire the beautiful Argentinian ladies. Very predictable really!

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Tags: Gérard Basset, judge, Master sommelier