In the world of wine, tradition often reigns supreme with images of wine frequently tied to the romance of vineyards, French oak barrels, and corks popping from glass bottles. Yet, the wine industry continues to evolve with new trends emerging that ensure vinophiles can enjoy their favourite fermented grapes on-the-go. Argentina, a country renowned for its Malbec and stunning wine regions, is again at the forefront of this wine revolution with the production of vino lata (canned wine) in a range of styles from some of the country’s top bodegas. While not a new concept, having first been attempted as far back as the 1930s in the United States, vino lata started gaining traction in the 2000s as wine lovers sought a more convenient, portable, and eco-friendly packaging.

Canned wines offer several advantages: they are lightweight, recyclable, and perfect for on-the-go lifestyles, and as the fifth-largest wine producer in the world, Argentina’s vino lata varieties are a worldwide favourite. The rise of canned wines in Argentina is a testament to the country’s innovative spirit and adaptability, meeting the demand of a global market interested in alternative wine packaging. Argentine winemakers saw and seized the opportunity to appeal to younger consumers looking for convenience without sacrificing quality. This led to several key players emerging in the country’s wine market in recent years, each bringing their unique approach to this burgeoning trend.

The appeal of the Argentine vino lata lies in its convenience and versatility which, for many consumers, is the ability to enjoy a glass of wine without committing to an entire bottle. Canned wines are perfect for picnics, beach trips, hiking, and other outdoor activities where traditional glass bottles are impractical. Moreover, the single-serving size of most canned wines helps reduce waste, as there is no need to worry about unfinished bottles going bad. In fact, one of the biggest hurdles canned wines had to overcome was the perception that they were inferior in quality to bottled wines as they were initially seen as gimmicks, appealing more for their novelty than their taste.

However, advancements in canning technology and winemaking techniques have significantly improved the quality of canned wines available today, with many offering the same complexity and flavour profiles as their bottled counterparts. The commitment to quality and innovation by Argentina’s vintners quickly moved the vino lata variety from novelty to mainstream in the country’s domestic market, This ensured its ready availability in supermarkets, wine shops, and even high-end restaurants with its rapid growth driven by both domestic consumption and export demand.

Younger generations, in particular, are driving this trend as millennials and Gen Z consumers appreciate the convenience, portability, and sustainability of canned wines. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the acceptance of alternative wine packaging as people sought out more convenient ways to enjoy wine at home. The country’s reputation for high-quality wines helps boost the credibility of its canned offerings with export markets to North America, Europe, and Asia largely responsible for the international demand. Sustainability has also been a significant factor in the popularity of the country’s vino lata as aluminium cans are more recyclable than glass bottles, requiring less energy to be produced and recycled. This environmental benefit aligns with the growing consumer preference for eco-friendly products and Argentine wineries, already known for their commitment to sustainability, are leveraging canned wines as a way to further reduce their environmental impact.

Thursday Food introduces five varieties from Argentina that are perfect for any holiday celebration:

Chac Chac Malbec Rose Lata by Viña Las Perdices is a rosé wine with soft, very faint pink colour that comprises 100 per cent Malbec from vineyards in the Uco Valley. It is attractive on the nose with notes of red fruits, strawberry, raspberry as well as floral notes which appear to a lesser extent. On the palate it is very pleasant, having the right acidity, which gives it a fresh and aromatic character.

Chac Chac Espumante Brut Nature Lata is another variety from Viña Las Perdices’ vino lata range that is made from 80 per cent Chardonnay and 20 per cent Pinot Noir, using the Charmat method. This sparkling wine has persistent perlage and a pale yellow hue with green reflections. It exhibits aromas of citrus fruits with notes of peach as well as pineapple with predominantly fruit and yeast notes. In the mouth, it reveals the presence of fresh fruits, green apple and pineapple.

Santa Julia Chenin Dulce Natural Lata is made from 100 per cent Chenin Blanc by Bodega Santa Julia, a pioneer in canned wines, from vineyards in Santa Rosa, Mendoza. It has a greenish yellow colour of good intensity and expresses a very intense and delicate aroma. On the nose, white peach, apricot, fresh herbs and some citrus notes such as lemon and grapefruit can be perceived. The flavour has a sweet entrance of citrus notes, with a good balance between acidity and natural sugar.

Mumm Extra Brut Lata is an espumante by Mumm Argentina made with 70 per cent Chardonnay and 30 per cent Pinot Noir, using the Charmat method, from grapes originating in the Tupungato (80 per cent) as well as San Rafael (20 per cent) regions of Mendoza. Greenish yellow with golden tones, this sparkling wine has small, tight and persistent bubbles with a crystalline appearance, in addition to a beautiful crown of foam. It is fresh on the nose, with a notable fruity and floral character, and aromas of freshly baked white bread. In the mouth, it is balanced, fresh and natural having a slight acidity that provides a final sensation of breadth and finesse.

Espumante Mumm Léger Spritz Lata, a 100 per cent Pink Muscat sparkling wine also made using the Charmat method in San Rafael, Mendoza, is bright yellow, with subtle and delicate bubbles. Its aroma is fragrant, with notes of bitter orange as well as herbs while on the palate, it is full-bodied, refreshing and silky but balanced by its bitter touch.

Argentine winemakers are not just sticking to traditional wines in cans, they are experimenting with different varietals, blends, and even wine cocktails, innovation which is helping to broaden the appeal of canned wines to a wider audience. Rooted in a rich wine heritage, these vintners are leading the charge in making high-quality wines accessible, convenient, and sustainable, ensuring the longevity of vino lata in the global wine landscape.

So, the next time you’re planning a picnic, a beach day, or simply a quiet evening at home, consider reaching for a can of Argentine wine and savour the decadent, refreshing flavours to be discovered in small packages. Cheers to the future of wine, one can at a time! Salud!

Mumm Brut Rose Lata

Mumm Leger Lata served with ice

The Santa Julia range of canned wines (Bodega Santa Julia)

Las Perdices Chac Chac Malbec Lata (front view) (Viña Las Perdices)

Chac Chac Espumante Dulce Natural Lata (Viña Las Perdices)

Chac Chac range of canned wines (Viña Las Perdices)

Chac Chac Espumante Brut Nature Lata (Viña Las Perdices)

Las Perdices Chac Chac Malbec Rose-Lata (Viña Las Perdices)

Espumante Mumm Leger Spritz Lata (Mumm Argentina)