The Odyssey of a Wine Critic with 'Vinous' Reviewer Joaquín Hidalgo

In this episode, we sit down with Joaquín Hidalgo — Buenos Aires-based wine journalist, Vinous reviewer, and the first Argentinean to join the international wine critic elite. Joaquín covers Argentina, Chile, Spain, and Portugal for Antonio Galloni's world renowned publication, Vinous, and has written for La Nación, Playboy and other local newspapers. We talk about his journey from winemaker to wine critic, his ironclad rules for integrity in a crumbling system, tasting with the world's best producers, and the only wine he ever gave 100 points. Joaquín also shares his thoughts on the rapidly evolving Argentine wine scene. This interview was filmed in Buenos Aires at Romanée Wine Experience (  / romaneeok  ) Timestamps: 0:02 — Introduction to Joaquín Hidalgo 3:18 — Origins in Mendoza and the Agricultural School 3:37 — From enologist to journalist 9:43 — First steps in wine journalism 12:07 — Integrity and independence as a critic 16:50 — The role of the critic and scores 17:32 — Tasting with producers and calibrating the palate 21:46 — Covering Spain for Vinous 27:25 — The wine that deserved 100 points 34:45 — Favorite regions in Argentina 42:30 — The Argentine DNA and the wine industry 49:00 — The rise of white wines in Argentina 52:02 — Wine consumption and the Buenos Aires market 59:21 — Pairings: the best wine for a barbecue 1:00:22 — The oldest wine and personal preferences 1:02:29 — Wines at home and favorite cocktail