Torrontes

  • Aromas and Flavors: intense nose of flowers and tropical fruits(often rose and peach), Yellow apples, lychee, white and purple flowers, spices, and tropical fruits are all common flavor descriptors
  • Usually bone dry (little residual sugar) with a light to medium weight, good acidity and a long finish
  • Found on the plains of Galicia, in northwest Spain, and in Argentina and Chile
  • Emblematic white wine of Argentina
  • Often found in Argentine homes, climbing the outdoor lattice or in the backyard garden
  • Finding pure plants can be an adventure, however, as many of the vines are a mixture
  • Most of the production in Chile used for Pisco (where it is known as Muscatel de Austria)
  • Recent genetic testing indicates that Torrontes is a hybrid of Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica
  • Salta province is ideal for Torrontes (high-altitude vineyards that get both intense sun and cool temperatures)
  • Torrentes from Salta is considered by its aficionados as the best in the country, by volume Mendoza produces the largest amount
  • The ideal complement to poultry, and specifically chicken
  • All else aside, if you have not tried this grape yet, shame on you for 6 weeks.  This is such a refreshing change from the over oaked chardonnay and blasé’ pinot grigio.  A perfect summer wine.