The Uco Valley is Mendoza's highest and coolest major sub-region, with vineyards climbing toward 1,500 metres in the foothills of the Andes. The extra altitude means a longer, slower ripening season and bigger swings between day and night temperatures, producing Malbec that's more perfumed, structured and mineral than warmer, lower-altitude Mendoza fruit — a style that's driven much of Argentina's recent reputation for serious, age-worthy wine.

Key grapes: Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir