Overview

 

The name Torrontes refers to a small group of white wines that come from different areas in Argentina. This group doesn’t represent one variety of grape. Instead, several varieties are used to produce Torrontes wines. These grapes thrive in high-altitude regions, specifically in Salta, which lies on the edge of the Andes mountains. The vineyards in this region are some of the highest in the world. The extremely dry conditions along with a diurnal temperature shift result in extraordinary white wines that comprise the Torrontes family. These wines can be light and refreshing or bold and perfumed. There are three styles of Torrontes wines, which include Torrontes Riojano, Torrontes Sanjuanino, and Torrontes Mendocino. Each one is native to South America and is a cross between the Muscat of Alexandria grape and the mission grape País.

 

Torrontes Riojano

 

The most common variety (and the most highly-regarded) is the Torrontes Riojano. This is one of Argentina’s most widely-planted variety of white wine grape. It’s a natural cross between the Criolla Chica grape and the Muscat of Alexandria. Torrontes Riojano is extremely aromatic with a high natural acidity level. If not produced well, this wine can be too bitter, harsh on the palette, and too low in acidity. They also have a tendency to be too alcoholic. However, when made with care, this wine has a perfect acidity balance and a rich, medium-bodied texture. Great Torrontes Riojano also contains intense aromatic notes of fruits and flowers.

 

Torrontes Sanjuanino

 

The grapes used to make this style of Torrontes are grown in Chile and the San Juan province. In Chili, Torrontes Sanjuanino is referred to as Moscatel de Austria. Plantings of these grapes are much less significant than Torrontes Riojano. However, it’s also a cross between the Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica varieties. When it comes to aromas, this variety is less intense but have very exciting flavors.

 

Torrontes Mendocino

 

With even smaller plantings than Torrontes Sanjuanino, Torrontes Mendocino grapes are most prominent in the province of Rio Negro, which is located in northern Patagonia Argentina. Again, Muscat of Alexandria is used, although these wines don’t have the aromas found in the other two Torrontes wines. It’s known for its vibrant golden color and wonderful flavors, but is aromatically very subtle.

 

Food Pairings

 

The aromatic characteristics and cooler serving temperatures make Torrontes the perfect match for spicier foods. More specifically, Indian and Asian cuisine. It’s great with coconut curry dishes and also matches well with Thai foods. When pairing this wine with meats, try to go with lighter colored meats like fish, chicken, or even tofu. These meats won’t overwhelm the aroma and high acidity of Torrontes. Roast chicken, curried shrimp, chicken satay, and pork chops are all good choices. When pairing with vegetables, butternut squash, carrots, snap peas, yams, and potato cucumber are all perfect options. As far as cheese is concerned, Torrontes pairs well with Swiss, feta, Gruyere, Pecorino, Manchego, and Paneer cheese. When cooking with spices, work with cilantro, parsley, Thai basil, shallot, cayenne pepper, cumin, turmeric, and coriander.

 

Meta: The family Torrontes white wines calls Argentina their home and contain a wide variety of floral, aromatic notes. Learn about the three different styles.