Luján de Cuyo

In the late 50's, the well-known French Champagne firm, Moët & Chandon (LVMH, MoëtHennessy- Louis Vuitton) noticed that they had a huge potential for development in South America and sent their technical advisor, the enologist Renaud Poirier, to study the possibilities for establishment. Poirier did some research in different regions of South America. Finally he discovered that the best place to produce high quality wines was the province of Mendoza, more specifically the region of Luján de Cuyo. Therefore, in 1960 Chandon Argentina was founded, being the first affiliate of Moët & Chandon to be created outside France. To produce the Terrazas wines, Chandon Argentina decided to restore the property located in the heart of Perdriel, facing the majestic mountain range Cordón del Plata. Original elements were preserved and repaired in order to maintain the spirit of the old winery. The restored brick construction contains modern equipment. Its impressive stainless steel tanks contrast with the austerity of its walls, the warmth of the oak barrels and enhance the beauty of the old establishment. It is located on slopes and terrace at between 600 and 1600 m. above sea level. The combination of altitude, dry soil, sunny climate and a fresh breeze coming from the mountain range make it a unique place in the world with exceptional conditions for the growth of vines.

Research has proved that altitude is a crucial factor for the aroma, body and concentration of grapes and that it is possible to find the most suitable altitude for each grape variety to express all its potential. In Terrazas de Los Andes Winery the traditional methods of the 19th century are combined with the latest technology, creating a perfect synthesis between current market needs and tradition.

At first Chandon Argentina produced high quality sparkling and generic wines but in the early '90s, aiming at international markets, the project of making varietals was taking shape and Terrazas started it. In Perdriel (Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza) there was an old Spanish-style winery founded in 1898, where Pedro Domecq produced brandy. Between 1957 and 1959 Renaud Poirier borrowed that establishment from Domecq. Thirty years later Terrazas de Los Andes was inaugurated there, an establishment of Chandon Argentina used for the production of varietals.