Unexpected Wine Country: Salta, Argentina

Everyone has heard of Mendoza, Argentina’s most famous wine region, where vineyards give way to dramatic views of the Andes.  But 800 miles to the north, the world’s highest vineyards grow in the Salta Province, site of Argentina’s finest colonial city and one of its oldest wineries.

A 4½-hour drive from the city of Salta, the nine-suite Estancia Colomé is not only a Harper Alliance hotel but also a working biodynamic winery. Some of its pre-phylloxera Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon vines date to 1854. The vineyards here, at about 7,200 feet, present vistas just as spectacular as those in Mendoza.

Those paying a visit to the region should also take time to explore the city of Salta itself. Commonly known as “Salta La Linda” (Salta the Beautiful), the city boasts fine Spanish architecture and an animated central plaza ringed by arcades with delightful small cafés. The House of Jasmines, set on a 300-acre ranch five minutes from the Salta airport, makes an ideal base for touring the city, as well as for hiking and horseback riding.