How does altitude affect wine grape growing in regions like Argentina?

In regions like Argentina, higher altitudes significantly contribute to grape growing by creating cooler temperatures. This is particularly beneficial because cooler temperatures help preserve the acidity in grapes, which is essential for producing balanced wines. Preserved acidity is critical for the wine's freshness and aging potential. Additionally, the cooler conditions at higher altitudes allow for a slower ripening process, which enhances the development of flavor complexity in the grapes. This contributes to a broader range of aromatic compounds and better overall quality in the finished wine.

Furthermore, the altitude also affects sunlight exposure, as grapes grown at higher elevations receive more intense UV radiation, which can lead to thicker grape skins and thus more color and tannin in red wines. The unique combination of temperature, sunlight, and diurnal temperature variations at high altitudes fosters optimal growing conditions, resulting in distinctive and high-quality wines.