Peter Morrell tastes one which is a blend of his two favourite white grapes whose characters are shaped by the unique ‘terroir’ of the Andes

South American wines are known for their vibrant character, intense fruit flavours, and exceptional value. Grown in dramatic landscapes ranging from the Andes Mountains to the coastal plains, these wines reflect both the natural beauty and winemaking heritage of the continent. Distinctive wine-making traditions create bold and expressive Argentinian Malbec, complex Chilean Carménère, and aromatic and fresh white varietals like Torrontés.

Graham Nash, Lead Product Development Manager at Tesco, comments:

“South America continues to captivate UK wine drinkers, with Argentinian Malbec remaining a firm favourite and Chile delivering quality and value that consumers trust. At Tesco, we’re seeing customers start to explore new wines and are increasingly venturing beyond the better-known regions and varieties, which led to us recently introducing Tesco Finest Albariño from Uruguay to our white wine range.

“Premium additions of well-known varieties like the El Enemigo Cabernet Franc and Semillon have brought an exciting depth to our range. There’s still work for us to do in helping shoppers better understand the region’s diversity, but enthusiasm is growing, and South American producers are keeping pace with the global drive to stay fresh and engaging through innovation.”

Suggestions include:

Alta Yarí Gran Corte, £23

This red wine is 60% Cabernet franc – 35% malbec – 5% cabernet sauvignon. The grapes for Alta – Yari come from our Estate planted high up in the foothills of the Andes. Here the conditions in Gualtallary are renowned for producing wines with the perfect balance of freshness, acidity and complexity. This unique blend displays the wild freshness of the fruit from high elevation vineyards with hints of mineral and spiced notes. It is a wine with great complexity and a velvety finish.

Cono Sur Bicicleta Red Blend, £7.25

The bicycle as a symbol shows the commitment and respect Cono Sur have for the environment, because they believe sustainability is essential to creating better taste and a brighter tomorrow. Join them and choose The Sustainable Way.
Red Blend: Bicicleta blend #1 is a blend of Mediterranean grapes; Carignan, Petit Verdot, Tempranillo, Cabernet Franc and Grenache. Together these make a perfect blend with soft and elegant tannins. Pairs well with red meats, pasta and mature cheeses.

Errázuriz Cabernet Sauvignon, £9.50

This Cabernet Sauvignon estate wines honour the vineyard and the property which has been home to Viña Errázuriz’s history for six generations. These Reserve wines reflect the character of the variety. It is aged for 6 months in French oak barrels and stand out for its freshness, fruit and excellent balance. Medium-bodied, smooth, with fine tannins and a refreshing acidity.

Tesco Finest Puemo Carménère, £9

Puemo Carmenere, Valle de Cachapoal 2022 is a rich and well balanced wine made from Chile’s iconic Carmenere grape from the Peumo vineyards situated within the Cachapoal Valley. Deep in colour with gentle aromas of wild herbs, chocolate notes and balanced with juicy dark berry and plum flavours. Pairs with Roasted game, grilled steak or hard cheeses.

Tesco Finest The Trilogy Malbec, £14

This Malbec from Argentina is sourced from three exceptional high altitude vineyard sites in the Uco Valley, Lunlunta and Agrelo, which produce Malbec of perfect balance, concentration and elegance. This wine has ripe plum and chocolate aromas, followed by subtle, dark fruit flavours with vanilla and black pepper finish. Style. Spicy and full bodied it pairs with grilled steak and roasted or barbecued meat

El Enemigo Semillón, £18.50

The name of this wine is drawn from this quote ‘At the end of the journey, we remember only one battle: the one we fought against ourselves, the one that defined us’. Adrianna Catena historian and vintner Alejandro Vigil winemaker

Tesco Finest Chenin Blanc Torrontes, £9

Peter Morrell, Editor comments “The Chenin Blanc and Torrontes grapes are two of my favourite white wine grapes. They are highly aromatic, offering a wide range of exotic flavours. The Chenin Blanc grape is well-known and originated in the Loire Valley. Torrontes is a lesser-known grape which is native to Argentina. The thing that makes the grapes in Tesco Finest Chenin Blanc Torrontes special is that they are grown at altitude in the Andes Mountains. As the grapes mature on the vine they are subject to high daytime and low nighttime temperatures, and these dramatic changes help make the grapes even more aromatic.

“The wine pours a light straw colour and the bouquet has citrus, floral, and grapey, almost raisin aromas. It has a refreshing mouthfeel with good acidity making it ideal for pairing with food. On the palate the citrus flavours are more pronounced together with a range of tropical fruits like pineapple and peach. The finish has good minerality with a spicey character, and it is long and buttery.

“This good value and very enjoyable summer wine is the perfect match with seafood salads and light curries.”

Tesco Finest Albariño Uruguay, £13

Made from Albariño grapes grown in the vineyards of Uruguay’s stunning southern coastline. Cooled by the oceanic breezes, this Albariño has aromas of apple, apricot, and pear. Textured and fruity on the palate with a refreshingly crisp and elegant finish. Pairs with leafy green salads, seafood risotto, grilled haddock and scampi.

Trapiche Reserve Chardonnay, £9

Trapiche Reserve is crafted with grapes grown in high altitude vineyards, in the alluvial soils at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The combination of altitude and generous sunshine produces very aromatic and fresh fruit. Aging in French and American oak adds harmony and complexity.

Diablo Sauvignon Blanc, £10.50

This sauvignon blanc has a pale yellow colour and surprises from the outset, it starts with its freshness and delicate touches of white peach. In the mouth, the freshness is noticeable from the first instant, but after a few seconds enveloping sweet and creamy notes appear, delivering a long and pleasant finish. It is a versatile wine, ideal for accompanying fresh and grilled fish, shellfish and different types of cheese.