Argentina is the world's 5th largest producer of wine and 80% of Argentina's wine comes from Mendoza. The region is divided into 4 distinctive grape-growing areas: Lujan du Cuyo, Maipu, Uco Valley, and Eastern Mendoza. Vineyard altitudes range from 2,000-4,700 feet above sea level. While the air temperature stays relatively cool, the vines receive more sunlight—over 300 days per year—than vines at sea level. This results in increased water stress and better tannin maturity at harvest. It also increases bud productivity, allowing for more selective pruning and yield management. Irrigation water is plentiful from year-round snow melt in the Andes. Soils vary from sandy to clay, but are predominantly loamy. Most are low in organic material, creating additional desirable vine stress. Grapes here have the longest "hang-time" in the world, which creates balanced wines with ripe fruit flavors and smooth tannins.