Torrontés

Torrontés is an aromatic white grape variety which is widely grown in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. It is known for its fresh acidity and floral aromas, making it a popular choice for lovers of white wine.

Torrontés is a white grape variety with a greenish-yellow colour. The grape has a signature aromatic profile which typically includes notes of rose, orange blossom, lychee, peach and apricot. The taste profile of Torrontés is typically zesty and crisp, with a lively acidity and a light to medium body.

Torrontés is primarily grown in Argentina, where it is the country's fifth-most planted variety, with about 17,000 hectares of vineyards. The variety is also found in Chile and Uruguay, where it is the third-most planted variety. Torrontés is a high-yielding variety that thrives in warm climates and is susceptible to downy mildew and botrytis bunch rot. The variety is often grown in higher-altitude vineyards, which imparts a distinctive character to the wines. Torrontés is typically made in a dry style and is frequently vinified with little to no oak influence, resulting in wines that are more light and crisp. In Argentina, Torrontés is mainly grown in the North-West region of the country, where the variety produces light and aromatic wines with notes of rose and peach. In Uruguay, Torrontés is mainly grown in the Canelones and Montevideo regions, where it produces more full-bodied wines with a balanced acidity. In Chile, Torrontés is mainly grown in the Valle Central, where it produces wines that are more aromatic and expressive. Torrontés pairs well with a variety of dishes, from lighter seafood dishes to spicy Asian cuisine. The variety's crisp acidity and aromatics make it a great match for food, as it helps to cut through the richness of a dish and bring out the flavours.

Three Torrontés varieties exist in Argentina parallel to each other: Torrontés Riojano, Torrontés Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino.

Torrontés Riojano is the most planted since it seems to have the best aromatic quality and is therefore prefered by winemakers.