Bodega Norton Altura

While Argentina's global wine identity is largely defined by its red grapes, Bodega Norton's Altura line makes a seriously compelling case for the country's whites. Established in 1895 by Edmund Norton and now under the ownership of the Swarovski family, Norton is one of Mendoza's most historically significant producers. The Altura Blanco is a high-altitude white blend, with grapes grown above 1,000 meters. This elevation is crucial, as it preserves the natural acidity that grapes in warmer Mendoza sites often lose. The result is a wine with genuine tension, vibrant citrus drive, and a freshness that most other Argentine whites simply can't match. Positioned in an accessible price band, generally under $25, it's an easy and highly recommended choice for anyone who has previously dismissed Argentina as a red-wine-only nation. For a region that built its reputation on Malbec, the Altura Blanco is a quietly persuasive argument that Mendoza offers far more range than many realize.