South American wines are well-known for their bold tastes and economical price levels, and Graffigna Wines from Argentina are no exception. Celebrating their 150th anniversary this year, the company has released a special commemorative label for the occasion. These wines make the perfect companion for those stay-at-home evenings,  whether it’s the lighter Pinot Grigio for end of summer libations, or the more robust Malbec for the cooler fall evenings ahead. Either way, we all could use something to celebrate.

The company was founded in 1870 by the Italian immigrant, Santiago Graffigna, a passionate man who, with his vision and entrepreneurial spirit, planted the first vineyards of the region. The winery is considered the oldest in San Juan and one of the most historic wineries in Argentina. It has retained its original wine making philosophy, with bold wines of great character, capable of conveying its 150 year history of excellence.

The Pinot Grigio and Malbec are the perfect bottles to pair at home with an Argentine meal like an “Asado” which is Spanish for BBQ. Whether the Malbec or the Pinot Grigio, these are quality wines that always rise to the occasion. Congratulations on your sesquicentennial Graffigna!

Malbec 2018

OAK AGING:From multi-altitude vineyards located in San Juanand Mendoza, Argentina. Regions with wide thermal amplitude (up to 68°F/20°C) and over 300 days of sun per year that produces top quality grapes. The Graffigna range transmits the true expression of each variety, with deep aromas, flavors and great concentration.

COLOR:dark purple red, with violet hues.

AROMA: profund and fruit forward, with ripe red berries,sweet spices and a hint of black pepper and toasted notes from oak aging.

PALATE:rounded with an excellent tannic structure.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHING:perfect pair with Argentinian asado and roasted chicken.

100% Malbec, 14%, Retail $14.99

Decision: Great for late night conversations.

Available at the LCBO

Pinot Grigio 2019

From multi-altitude vineyards located in San Juan and Mendoza, Argentina.Regions with wide thermal amplitude (up to 68°F/20°C) and over 300 days of sun per year that produces top quality grapes. The Graffigna range transmits the true expression of each variety, with deep aromas, flavors and great concentration.

COLOR: pale straw yellow with greenish hues.

AROMA:citric notes and floral nuances, with hints of white peach and apricot.

PALATE:fresh and intense, with pleasant aftertaste that is crisp and nicely balanced.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHING:seafood and seasonal salads.

100% Pinot Grigio, 13.5%, Retail $12.95, 750ml

Decision: The perfect dinner companion.

Available at the LCBO

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist based in Toronto with a focus on tourism, lifestyle, entertainment and community issues. He has written several travel articles and has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He’s willing to take on any assignments of interest, attend parties with free booze, listen to rants, and travel the world in search of the great unknown. He’s eager to discover the new, remember the past, and look into the future.