Patagonian Wine to Drink on Your Ski Holiday

Argentina is the fifth-largest wine producer in the world, and one of the best things about a ski trip here is that world-class wine costs a fraction of what you'd pay at home. After a cold day on the mountain, there's nothing better than settling into a warm lodge with a glass of Malbec that would cost USD 40 in New York but runs you USD 8 in Bariloche. Here's our guide to the wines you should be drinking on your Patagonian ski holiday.

Malbec -- Argentina's Signature Red

You can't visit Argentina without drinking Malbec. Originally from France, the grape found its true home in the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza and has since spread to cooler regions further south. A good Argentine Malbec is full-bodied, fruit-forward, and smooth -- perfect for pairing with the asado you'll eat after skiing. Look for bottles from Catena Zapata, Luigi Bosca, or Trapiche for reliable quality at reasonable prices. In Bariloche restaurants, expect to pay USD 6-15 for a glass and USD 20-50 for a bottle.

Patagonian Pinot Noir -- The Local Surprise

What most visitors don't know is that Patagonia has its own emerging wine region. The Rio Negro Valley, just a few hours northeast of Bariloche, produces some of Argentina's finest Pinot Noir. The cool climate and wide temperature swings between day and night create wines with bright acidity, red fruit character, and an elegance that surprises even seasoned wine drinkers. Bodega Chacra, Humberto Canale, and Familia Schroeder are the names to look for. Many Bariloche wine shops stock these local bottles, and they make an excellent souvenir to bring home.

Torrontes -- A White Worth Trying

If you prefer white wine, Torrontes is Argentina's answer. This aromatic grape produces dry, floral wines with notes of citrus and white peach. It's lighter than you'd expect from an Argentine wine and pairs beautifully with the fresh trout dishes you'll find on menus throughout the Lake District. Torrontes from Salta (in the northwest) tends to be the most expressive, but you'll find good bottles from several regions on restaurant wine lists in Bariloche.

Where to Drink Wine in Bariloche

Bariloche isn't a wine town in the way Mendoza is, but it has excellent options. Several restaurants along Calle Mitre (the main street) have curated wine lists featuring both Mendoza heavyweights and Patagonian boutique producers. For a dedicated tasting, visit one of the wine bars near the Civic Centre. Cerveceria Blest and Manush are known for craft beer, but the wine scene has caught up in recent years.

For a more immersive experience, some of our clients add a day trip to a Rio Negro Valley bodega before or after their ski week. The drive takes about 90 minutes each way, and most wineries welcome visitors for tastings without appointment during the ski season (June through September).

Wine and Asado -- The Perfect Pairing

The real magic happens when you combine Argentine wine with an asado. After a full day on the slopes at Cerro Catedral, gather around a wood fire with your group, open a good Malbec, and let the parrillero (grill master) do their work. Chorizo and morcilla to start, then ribs and flank steak, all washed down with wine that costs less than a lift ticket. This is the ski holiday experience you won't find in the Alps or the Rockies.

What to Bring Home

Argentine wine is extraordinary value, but check your home country's customs allowances before loading up. Most visitors can bring 2-3 bottles duty-free. Wine shops in Bariloche will pack bottles for travel, and some offer shipping services for larger orders. A bottle of premium Patagonian Pinot Noir makes a far more interesting gift than the usual travel souvenirs.

Our Recommendation

We include wine pairings and bodega recommendations in all our custom ski trip itineraries. Whether you're a casual drinker or a serious collector, we'll make sure your evenings are as memorable as your days on the mountain. Get in touch to plan your trip.