Wines of Argentina

Torrontés riojano: A Perfect Balance of Fruit and Acidity

Cultivated since the times of the Spanish Conquistadors, Torrontés is the only 100% Argentine wine grape. The variety’s origins are not fully known, but it is clearly related to Mediterranean Muscat. Today it is grown throughout Argentina, but is particularly celebrated in the northern
province of La Roija (alt. 2600 to 4500ft), where it produces premium wines that are fruity yet dry.

Torrontés offers aromas evocative of roses, jasmine, and orange blossoms as well as hot spices. Its flavour is reminiscent of orange peel, peach, honey, oregano, camomile and Muscat grapes. The wine has a crisp character is similar to Sauvignon Blanc, but somewhat softer and rounded. Characteristically fruity, Torrontés may be mistaken for a sweet wine, but it is actually a perfectly
balanced dry wine.

Executive Chef Dino Renaerts of Vancouver’s Diva at the Met has developed a salad that pairs perfectly with Torrontés. It features Farmhouse Blue Cheese Roche that complements the aromatics of the wine, with Fraser Valley Micro Herb Salad, Vista D'oro candied walnuts and blood
orange gastrique. Chef Renaerts also suggests pairing Torrontes with smoked duck salad or Asian cuisine. Coconut prawns and Thai curry are a particularly good match for this authentic Argentine wine.