This is what you need to know about Torrontés

An introduction to Argentina’s iconic white grape.

Torrontés is renowned for its enchanting sweet fruity and floral aromas, but the truth is revealed on the palate! Flavors of herbs and citrus fruit, along with vigorous acidity, makes this wine unique and delightful. It’s also a good companion of seafood and spicy dishes.
What is the story behind the delicious and aromatic Torrontés? The answer lies in Argentina.

Argentina’s Signature White Grape

Torrontés is the result of the combination of two grapes varieties: Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica. The latter is known as Mission in the U.S.

Three variants of Torrontés exist across Argentina’s wine regions: 1,496 acres of Torrontés Mendocino, 4,332 acres of Torrontés Sanjuanino, and 19,570 acres of Torrontés Riojano. The former two are characterized by their lean and fresh profiles, whereas Torrontés Riojano, commonly known just as Torrontés, is most suitable for crafting fine wines.

Torrontés Riojano is one of the country’s most widely-planted white grape variety and is primarily grown in Mendoza, La Rioja, Salta and San Juan province.

The wine regions nestled at the foothills of the Andes Mountains are exceptional for cultivating this grape variety. Consequently, Torrontés wines from the high-altitude vineyards of Salta, located in Argentina’s northern wine region, have earned international acclaim. Excellent Torrontés wines are also made in the Uco Valley, Mendoza.

Most of these wines are meant to be drunk while young, when they’re still fresh. But there are some exquisite exceptions where oak plays a significant role in the creation of a more complex and elegant wine.

What is Torrontés wine similar to?

If you like Riesling or Gewürztraminer, I’m sure you will enjoy Torrontés. These wines are all known for their intense aromatics. I’d say Riesling is the more similar to Torrontés because of its energetic acidity. But remember, Torrontes is a dry wine, unlike Riesling or Gewürztraminer which can be dry or sweet.

While there is a winemaker producing late harvest Torrontés, sweet Torrontés is uncommon.

What does Torrontés taste like?

• Sweet aromas of white flowers, notes of citrus-like spices, herbs, tropical fruit and lemon.
• Medium to high acidity.
• Light to medium body
• Dry

Torrontés Food Pairing

• Delicate flavors such as fish and shellfish.
• Spicy and aromatic Indian, Chinese and Thai dishes.
• Empanadas and locro (Argentinian traditional dishes).

Recommended Torrontés

COLOME ESTATE TORRONTES 2018: From the Calchaquí Valleys in Salta, this is a generous aromatic wine! Sweet floral and citrus aroma of grapefruit lead to subtle herbal flavors. Refreshing acidity. This is how a typical Torrontés should taste like!
EL ESTECO DON DAVID RESERVE TORRONTES 2017: This wine has bright acidity. It has lively aromas of jasmines and white peaches; it will make you wonder whether this is wine or perfume! Medium finish and smooth mouthfeel. The vineyards are located in the Calchaqui Valleys at over 5,500 fasl.
SUSANA BALBO SIGNATURE BARREL FERMENTED TORRONTES 2017: Made by the “Queen of Torrontés” Susana Balbo, this oaked white is simply delicious. It has been aged for 4 months in oak barrels. White pear and flowers awake your senses. Oak flavors don’t overpower the delicate notes, instead they add elegance and balance. And guess what?! It’s not from Cafayate but from Altamira in the Uco Valley, Mendoza.