High-Altitude Bordeaux Blends from South America

For those who appreciate the structure, complexity, and age-worthiness of Bordeaux but are seeking exceptional value and a unique New World perspective on classic varieties, the world of South American Bordeaux-inspired blends is a must-explore category. These wines, primarily from the high-altitude vineyards of Argentina and the Andean foothills of Chile, offer a compelling alternative viewpoint that combines the structured finesse of Bordeaux with the concentrated, pure fruit of the New World. The resulting wines offer approachable tannins, vibrant acidity, and layers of flavor that can easily rival their French counterparts.

South America Wine News: Top Picks from Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay

Today's newsletter plays hopscotch across the Andes as we explore some of the best insider's favorites from South America. First, we get familiar with two showstopping projects from either side of the mountain range in Chile's Laberinto and Argentina's El Enemigo. Next, we'll get a glimpse of what visionary Chilean winemakers are doing to take the historic Carménère grape into the modern era, and finally, we'll explore a quartet of sub-$20 value performers that can stand tall in any regular, go-to rotation.

Off-the-Beaten Wine Route in South America

Side streets are always the most fun to travel. When I am traveling without an agenda, my favorite thing to do is to start wandering. There is no better way to take in a new (or old) city than to choose a direction and just go. I find that my approach to wine is similar. I love exploring and learning—it is one of the best things about wine that there are always new things to discover or a new way to approach an old favorite. Below are just a couple of off the beaten path wines from South America.

Argentina's Enemigo Winery Is at the Top of Their Game

The wines from El Enemigo are some of the very best from Argentina—and, I would say, in the world. The easiest way for me to justify this statement is to make a sports comparison. When athletes are at the pinnacle of their sport, they make what they do seem effortless and simple. And the very best can take that to the next level—to me, it is almost like magic. All the wines from El Enemigo are like that for me, they are elite!

K&L Wine Merchants

www.klwines.com