Norton Archives - South America Wine Guide

One of the oldest and biggest wineries in the region, Norton was originally started by an English railway engineer who, after building Argentina’s now defunct rail line, settled down with a local woman and began living the good life and making wine. Now owned by Swarovski (who also has a pretty good life as a diamond merchant), this winery still holds a prestigious spot in Mendoza’s wine history and is still a keen player today.

A tour starts with a welcome glass of bubbly and includes a walk through the historic cellar where there are old bottles lined up that date almost 100 years. A special element is a chat about modern bottling methods and eco-friendly bottles before finishing with a tasting.

You can taste Norton wines (including the Cosecha Especial, Lote, Gernot Langes and Perdriel wines) at their La Vid winery restaurant.

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Visiting Norton with Jorge Riccitelli

When someone is voted ‘Winemaker of the Year’ by Wine Enthusiast, it’s a big deal. When they are the first person in South America to be given the honour, it’s an even bigger deal. But meeting Jorge Riccitelli, you’d never know. A humble and always smiling man, it is clear to see why Riccitelli is one of Argentina’s most loved winemakers.

As Head Winemaker of Norton for over 20 years, Jorge Riccitelli has won over hearts with his wines in Argentina and abroad for their simple and fulfilling style and their great price points. The award as best winemaker he humbly attributes to his wines and not to himself as a personality. He describes his wines as “happy” because they enable people to enjoy them in good company, heightening the friendly atmosphere, but not demanding your total attention on the wine. For Jorge Riccitelli, wine is something to make your life better, not to complicate it.

Although that’s not to say that Norton’s wines play by all the rules… Take Quorom as an example. A wine that blends not only varieties but also vintages: Quorom 1 has 60% Malbec 2002, 22% Merlot 2005 and 18% Petit Verdot 2006. When asked about why they decided to make this wine, his simple answer is “why not?”

Moving up the line you can taste Norton’s top wines: Lote – a single vineyard line which has some gorgeous Malbecs from three different vineyards in Mendoza; a collection of their Sparkling wines including the delightful champenoise method ‘Cosecha Especial’; and Gernot Langes. Named after the owner, Gernot Langes-Swarovski, their icon blend is a stunning mix of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

Wait, Swarovski did you say? “Yes,” Jorge’s eye sparkles, “all the women recognize that name…” And as Jorge himself continues to makes gems in the bottle, his name too is bringing a sparkle to many a wine drinker’s eye.