AUSTIN, TEXAS. March 3, 2009. Imagine standing in a lush vineyard, surrounded by snow-capped, majestic Andean peaks, savoring a rich, luscious Malbec from Argentina or a fine, smoky Carmenere from Chile. Wine enthusiasts don’t have to travel that far to enjoy a taste of one of the world’s most popular wine regions – all they have to do is visit Whole Foods Market’s first-ever “Wines from South America” celebration.

Kicking off in March, the event celebrates varietals from Argentina and Chile, two major and fast-growing wine countries with perfect climates and a reputation for producing high quality, affordably-priced wines ranging from $10 to $15. Just last year, Mendoza, Argentina was named Wine Enthusiast magazine’s “Wine Region of the Year.”

“South American wines are making a huge splash on the international wine scene, from the signature wines that reflect the ‘terroir’ or character of the region to top quality, value wines that surprise with the first taste,” said Doug Bell, Whole Foods Market Global Wine Buyer. “Whole Foods Market is excited to highlight Chile and Argentina this spring with reds and whites for every palate, occasion and budget. From the light, tropical fruit of Argentina’s Crios Torrontes to the silky, fresh cherry fruit and allspice of Chile’s Agustinos Pinot Noir, we’ve handpicked some real South American treasures.”

From March through April, Whole Foods Market will feature 10 “Wines from South America.” Shoppers will be able to sample the wines in many stores and learn about Malbec and Torrontes, two well-known varietals from Argentina, and Carmenere, a signature Chilean wine. Stores will also give away free easy-to-use wine and food pairing wheels that will help shoppers select a Tilia Chardonnay to enjoy with their Easter ham or an Araucano Carmenère for their Passover brisket.

To complement these wine selections, Whole Foods Market chefs have created three South America-inspired recipes that can be found in the Whole Foods Market recipe database: wholefoodsmarket.com – Grilled Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce, Chilean Chicken Pie with Sweet Corn Crust, and Whole Wheat Empanadas with Potatoes and Cheese. To read a blog post by our intrepid wine buyers about South America’s wine growing regions beginning March 7, please visit blog.wholefoodsmarket.com.