Torrontes is an aromatic white wine from Argentina. This drink is characterized by moderate acidity, velvety structure, delicate notes of peach and apricot.
Under the common name, in fact, three types of grapes are hidden: Torrontés Riojano, Torrontés Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino. All three varieties are natural hybrids of the red variety País and the white Muscat of Alexandria (also known as Zibbibo, Zibbibo).
The most delicious is considered Torrontés Riojano. This variety grows mainly in the northern part of Argentina, in the Salta region. Sanjuanino and Mendocino have a less complex bouquet and richer aromas, so they tend to make sweeter wines.
Torrontes Riojano smells like Muscat, Riesling and Gewürztraminer at the same time. The latter, however, unlike Torrontes, are rarely dry.
Production regions
Torrontes wine is mainly produced in Argentina, it is not surprising that the main part of the vineyards of this variety is located there, and their area is slowly but surely growing. Until 2008, Torrontes was only the third most produced Argentinean wine after the low-quality and never-exported Pedro Giménez from indigenous grapes and Ugni blanc, but now it occupies a solid first place.
The main regions of production: La Rioja (La Rioja), Salta (Salta), San Juan (San Juan), Rio Negro (Rio Negro).
Vineyards in Salta are located at an altitude of up to 3000 m above sea level – these are some of the highest mountain vineyards in South America.
Outside of Argentina, this variety can be found in Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Uruguay and Spain.
Since Torrontes is not one variety, but at least three, they have different origins. Riojano was introduced from Spain, while Mendocino and Sanjuanino are autochthonous Argentine varieties.
Torrontes berries are thick-skinned and ripen early. This variety is susceptible to gray mold, so it does best in dry and cool continental climates.
Wine characteristics
From the Torrontes variety, a high-quality light-bodied wine with a rich bouquet and a deep fruity aroma is obtained. However, oenologists note that this drink is easily spoiled if an inexperienced producer fails to keep the acidity at a moderate level. The yield of the vine also affects the taste of the drink: it should not be excessive so that the berries can ripen without interference.
The main notes of wine Torrontes: lemon, lemon peel, peach, rose petals, geranium, white flowers. The rich, almost perfumed aroma is set off by a salty aftertaste and a dry profile.
In general, it cannot be said that the taste of Torrontes wine is always plus or minus the same: the drink can turn out to be both very fresh and heavier, drier and sweeter.
This wine is never aged in oak barrels, and the cost of a bottle rarely exceeds 15-20 euros.
How to drink Torrontes wine
Before serving Torrontes should be cooled to 3-7 degrees. He does not need to “breathe” after uncorking, and a sealed bottle can be stored in a wine cellar for 3-5 years.
This wine makes harmonious gastronomic pairings with Asian or Indian dishes such as coconut curry, spicy peanut sauce, etc.
Torrontes should not be served with pork or beef, but it goes well with poultry, fish, tofu dishes. A variety of soft cheeses will also work, ranging from feta to manchego or cottage cheese. A good snack will be raw or boiled vegetables, fresh fruits, vegetable stew.