Evolution of the area of the most important vine varieties in Argentina

Abstract

Analysis of the evolution of the most cultivated vine varieties in Argentina during the period 2000-2016*. The area evolution by variety, color and aptitude in all the country and per province was analyzed. The total area under vine increased by 11%, varieties suitable for wine and / or musts increased by 9.5%, those suitable for fresh consumption had an increase by 46.5% and those suitable for raisins increased by 25.3%. There is a marked tendency towards red varieties, which increased by 62%, white varieties decreased by 18% and rosé varieties showed a decrease by 24%. The area cultivated with Malbec has grown more than other varieties, followed by Syrah, Bonarda, Aspirant Bouschet and Flame Seedless. The areas cultivated with Criolla Grande, Moscatel Rosado and Pedro Giménez have decreased. There is evidence of a change in the varietal composition of vineyard area in all the provinces, with a tendency towards varieties with better aptitude for a specific destination. The areas with varieties destined to obtain high quality varietal wines have increased. Mendoza is still the largest grape producer in the country, followed by San Juan and La Rioja. Salta is in the fourth position, Catamarca maintains the fifth place, Neuquén reached the sixth place, and Rio Negro is in the seventh position. In Mendoza and San Juan the area with vines has increased. In Mendoza wine grape varieties have mainly increased, whereas in San Juan areas with varieties suitable for fresh consumption and raisins have increased, while wine grape varieties have decreased.