A is for Argentina, a country known for its Malbec of a lighter kind. I prefer the strong ink-like and flavoursome of those produced in Cahors in general.  But the Malbecs from Bodegas Salentein are as inky and aromatic as those cousins in the Old World.  Make no mistake, these are your Fall and Winter wines of choice, because they are the most versatile wines you can get in this price range.

Pinot Noir is not what springs to mind when I think traditional barbecues in Argentina,  as I grew up in the Southern most tip of Brazil, and Cabernet Sauvignon was the wine of choice in my father’s Sunday gatherings. Yet this single vineyard 2013 Pinot Noir,  by Bodegas Salentein caught me by surprise.  A brilliant deep ruby red, powerful cherry and chocolate nose, just this side of soft and silky, with some lingering cassis, it will certainly enhance your grilled and roasted meats.

But their 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve  is to die for.

Intense ruby red colour, a soft leather nose and a finish that will remind you of the cold crisp mountain air of Valle de Uco, in Mendoza, where Bodegas Salentein have been perfecting the art of winemaking.

Think traditional Pampas fare: churrascos with grass-fed beef, and all the  necessaire accoutrements such as crisp fried polenta and other Argentine’s Italian-influenced food.  Real Pampas churrascos will match well this 2014 Cabernet and show the full expression of this varietal.