When did you first become interested in wine? (When was your first taste? How was the experience?)
I entered the wine business 30 years ago when I decided to study oenology in university. The experience was extremely interesting— and it was an excellent combination of life in the vineyards with enjoying the pleasure of food and wine.

What brought you into the wine business?
The wine business is exciting. I always enjoyed being able to communicate to consumers the experiences and sensations that arise in the world of wine. Occasionally, when people visit the vineyards, we can share our knowledge with them and enjoy a rich experience with friends.

Do you have a favorite varietal or region?
I admire all varietals and have used most of them in my work. However, my favorite varietal is Sauvignon Blanc.

If you don't order wine at a restaurant or bar, which beverage do you choose?
That depends on the food or the situation. I could choose anything from mineral water to beer.

What's your least favorite drink?
Bitter drinks, such as Amaro.

What are your thoughts on recent trends within the industry?
One of the trends I find interesting is the growing popularity of small plates in other parts of the world. Consumers are pairing wines with these dishes, often ordering coordinating varietals with each course. They are drinking a wider variety of wine, often because they are ordering by the glass instead of the bottle. This presents a great opportunity for Graffigna because our wines pair so well with so many types of food, and many are made with this style of dining in mind. This trend has also contributed to the growing popularity of lesser-known varietals. Malbec has grown exponentially in popularity in recent years and I attribute this to the wine consumer's growing knowledge and desire to try what is best, if not the most well-known.

What is the first thing someone learning about wine should know?
It is important for everyone to know the correct temperature at which to drink each wine. Food pairings can also be very important in a wine experience, so every new wine drinker should receive some basic food and wine pairing recommendations.

What are some of your favorite food and wine pairings?
Barbecue with red wines such as Malbec or Cabernet. I like our Graffigna Grand Reserve Malbec 2007 because of its complex but approachable palate. I also love empanadas with Torrontes. Torrontes is an elegant grape and our Graffigna Grand Reserve Torrontes 2009 plays up the sophistication well with a perfectly balanced acidity and interesting volume.

Do you think any rules should be adhered to when pairing?
Not necessarily, the consumer should feel free to combine the food that he likes with the wine that he likes. Although, as general principles we can say that:
1.) Spicy and structured red wines generally pair well with meals that are high in protein and fat, with spicy sauces.
2.) Light red wines with fruit flavors pair well with pasta and soft sauces.
3.) White wines that are dry go well with light dishes with soft aromas, such as chicken with a mild sauce or roast chicken.
4.) Aromatic white wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Torrontes are perfect to accompany dishes with strong flavors and aromas, such as Empanadas Salteñas, or seafood dishes.

What are some of the benefits of drinking wine?
Many people have written about this subject. First of all, enjoy the spirit and the conviviality of a table at any meal. Then there are all the health benefits, a subject that doctors have written many books about.

What wines should no home be without?
Every home should have one good red, like Graffigna Centenario Malbec 2007, and one good white, like Graffigna Centenario Pinot Grigio 2009. When company drops by unexpectedly, you'll be prepared with two very drinkable, approachable wines to offer your guests.

Do you have any favorite wine gadgets? Are there any new ones on the market? If so, what are they and where can people get them?
I'm pretty old-fashioned when it comes to wine tools. I prefer a waiter's corkscrew and a clean glass.

What are your three best tips, tricks or techniques for wine lovers?
1.) Always start drinking a wine at 3° C lower than recommended. Wine heats up quickly at the table and on our palate.
2.) It is not absolutely necessary to decant the wine before drinking it. You only need to open the bottle half an hour before drinking.
3.) Use the correct glasses for red and white wines. It is essential to clearly appreciate the unique attributes and hues of red wines, and the fine and delicate qualities of whites.