Torrontés

 Grapes Characteristics

A very fruity white grape variety that is best known for its aromatic profile including flavours of apricot, nectarine, lemon zest, pineapple and lychee. The grape also has a perfumed floral character, reminiscent of white blossom, geranium and roses. It is almost always dry but the bountiful fruity flavours can give the impression of sweetness.

Torrontés actually covers three different grape varieties; Torrontés Riojano, Torrontés Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino. Torrontés Riojano is by far the most important variety in terms of acreage and also quality.

Key Regions

Argentina

This is the main country for Torrontés. It is produced in all of the Argentinian regions. Salta, a region in the North, is almost exclusively (in terms of Torrontés) planted with the best of the three varieties, Torrontés Riojano. It grows best in the cooler, high altitude sites which helps retain higher acid levels to balance the powerful fruity flavours. Cafayate Valley in Salta is producing particularly high quality Torrontés and is an area to look out for.

Torrontés has a few plantings in Peru, Chile, Uruguay and Bolivia. There is great debate as to which of the three varieties is grown in each of these countries.

Key flavours: Rose, Geranium, Pineapple, Nectarine, Apricot, Lemon, Lemon Zest