Three Sheets: Argentina

Buenos Aires is called the “Paris of South America,” an apt nickname when you consider its charming mix of tree-lined streets, high-fashion and rich history. And like the French, Argentineans are known for their ability to produce great wine. Since 1992 Argentina has invested over 650 million dollars to modernize their wine industry. They are an important wine producer, rated fifth in the world, with the annual per capita consumption of wine amongst the highest in the world. Known for their Malbec wines that grow in the Province of Mendoza, Argentina is an ideal environment to successfully develop the grape and turn it into the world’s best.

Best Places to Visit:

• Plaza Dorrego 
– Located in the heart of San Telmo, this historic outdoor plaza is full of pubs, bars and restaurants. Pull up a chair and ask for the national cocktail of Argentina: Fernet Branca and Cola. It’s 80 proof and contains a secret mix of more than 60 different spices and herbs.
• Todo Mundo — Head just across the street from Plaza Dorrego to this local watering hole. Try the Gancia Batido, a local drink consisting of Gancia Americano, lemon and sugar. It’ll make you pucker!
• Achaval Ferrer Winery – A quick flight from Buenos Aires, Mendoza is Argentina’s wine region and Malbec is the national grape of Argentina. Check out some local wineries and learn more about this regional drink.
• 3-in-one Convenience store — this is a unique place that has a wide variety of drinks, a full service meat department and a taxidermy service. Stop by and grab a Quilmes, beer that’s been brewed in Argentina since 1890, to go.
• Vines of Mendoza Tasting Room — Test out the five S’s (See, Smell, Swirl, Sip and Savor) and enjoy a nice sampling of local wines like the Torrontes (white), Malbec and Alpha Crux Tempranillo.
• Vines of Mendoza Vineyard Estate — 60 miles south of Mendoza, near the base of the Andes Mountain range, you can find a cure for your hangover (“Resaca”) with some Yerba Mate Tea, Malbec wine and lots and lots of meat.

Argentina Facts:

• The Spanish first arrived around 1516, and Argentina gained independence in 1816.
• Some of the world’s oldest known dinosaur fossils have been found in Argentina including the remains of Argentinosaurus, a very large plant eater.
• Trees in Los Alerces National Park in the Patagonia region are said to be up to three thousand years old.
• In 1946 President Juan Domingo Peron was elected President of Argentina. His legendary wife, “Evita”, became responsible for labor relations.
• The name Argentina is Spanish for “little silver,” apparently what the discoverers of the land and the founders of the country went there for.