 The intricate irrigation system used to bring water from melted snow caps in the Andes originated in the 16th century (with the Spanish settlers adopting techniques previously used by the Incas) and has been a vital component of agriculture in Argentina.Water flows down from the mountain through a series of ditches and canals where it is stored in reservoirs for use by vineyards which can apply for government-regulated water licenses that grant them access to the water.Newly planted vineyards on land that does not have existing water rights will often use alternative water sources such as drilling deep boreholes to below the surface to retrieve water from underground aquifer.