Salta, Argentina: A road trip with spectacular scenery...and high-altitude wines not to miss
If you dream of wide-open spaces, golden light, and well-filled glasses, Salta checks all the boxes. Nestled in northwestern Argentina, this region is a jewel for lovers of spectacular road trips... and high-altitude wines. Shall we take you along?
Welcome to Salta, "La Linda"
They don't call it "the beautiful" for nothing. The city of Salta, with its colonial architecture, lively squares, and legendary empanadas, is worth the detour. Stroll through its cobbled streets, climb up Cerro San Bernardo for the view, and push open the door of the MAAM to discover the famous Inca mummies found at over 6,000 meters altitude (yes, really).
But the best is yet to come: head to the Calchaquí Valleys, a real playground for lovers of raw nature and perched vineyards.
Road Trip in the Calchaquí Valleys: XXL Landscapes & Perched Vineyards
On the road to Cafayate, taking the legendary route 68, you cross the Quebrada de las Conchas, an incredible canyon with red cliffs sculpted by the wind. Your eyes take it all in... and soon, your taste buds will too.
Because here, wines grow at more than 2,000 meters altitude. This dry climate, hot by day, cold by night, gives ultra-concentrated grapes, full of aromas and freshness. This is the specialty of Salta wines: height, brilliance, and often... Malbec.
Wine in Salta? Not Just Malbec...
Well, we won't lie to you: Salta Malbec is a monument. Powerful, deep, with beautiful tannins and black fruits galore. But the region doesn't stop there. There's also Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Torrontés (a floral and crisp white), and even rarer grape varieties like Criolla Chica, brought back into fashion by bold winemakers.
Not to Be Missed: Wines from Agustín Lanús & Co
This is exactly what we love about Agustín Lanús, an explorer-winemaker who roams the heights of the Andes to vinify gems like:
- Ilogico Malbec: intense, spicy, structured, with a freshness coming straight from the summits.
- Ilogico Criolla: lighter, fruity, floral, perfect for aperitifs or a summer barbecue.
And if you like to vary your pleasures, we also recommend the Viñas en Flor cuvées, for expressive and fruit-filled reds, or Pietra Pura, to explore another face of Argentinian wine, between elegance and character.
Cafayate: The Beating Heart of the Vineyard
This is where it all happens: Cafayate, at 1,700 meters altitude, is the perfect spot to discover local bodegas. You can taste good Argentinian wine, sleep among the vineyards, discuss terroir with winemakers, and leave with a few well-chosen bottles.
And good news: you don't need to taste everything on site, you can find several of these wines directly on our website (no need to climb to 3,000 m for that 😉).
Salta, 100% Pleasure Version
Salta is a perfect blend of spectacular nature, living culture, and unforgettable wines. Whether you're the type to devour kilometers in a van, lounge with a glass in hand, or alternate between canyon, asado, and cellar, this region has everything to make you fall in love.