Where it is
La Rioja is in north-western Argentina, at the foot of the Andes. Vineyards are mostly in the Famatina valley, around Chilecito, with others near the city of La Rioja.
Land and climate
Desert, with little rain and irrigation from Andean snowmelt. Altitude gives cool nights.
Grapes and wines
Torrontés Riojano, an aromatic white, is the signature grape. Bonarda, Malbec and Syrah are important reds. The province has no connection with Spain's Rioja, although it was named after the Spanish region.