Traditionally the main wine producing region of Mendoza, this area is comprised of the departments of Junín, Rivadavia, San Martín and Santa Rosa and is irrigated by the Tunuyán River. Grape varieties such as Bonarda and Shiraz flourish in this region producing juicy ripe fruit flavors, high in concentration.

On the outskirts of the city, the Mendoza River irrigates the vineyards of Luján de Cuyo and Maipú, two of the region’s most traditional terroirs. This central region ranges in altitude from 600 to 1,100m (2,000 to 3,600ft) above sea level and benefits from old alluvial deposits and the disintegration of minerals from the Andes. The main varieties in this region are Malbec, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which yield wines of great structure and intensity. Argentine Malbec was born in Agrelo, and is now the most commonly planted variety in the area, boasting vines of up to 40 years old.

Famous for its high-altitude vineyards and cool climate, the Uco Valley sits in the foothills of the Andes about 60 miles south of Mendoza city. Numerous streams of fresh snow-melt irrigate the fertile soil, collecting in the Tunuyán River. In the heart of this renowned valley is Tupungato, or “star view point” in the local native tongue, named after the impressive volcano nearby. At up to 1,400m (4,500ft) above sea level, it has some of the highest vineyards in the world, resulting in cool weather and extreme temperature differences from day to night. This is where Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Merlot strive, as well as a very floral, fresh Malbec with sweet fruit and firm tannins, making wines of great natural acidity and ageing potential.