TORRONTES, a native grape of Argentina, is the flagship white for this country though markets like the U.S. are just getting to know it. It makes an intensely aromatic wine with trademark notes of apricot and peach in the nose. This Alta Vista 2013 Torrontes racked up 91 points from Wine Advocate. The 2012 vintage was another big points scorer. I always say Torrontes is like a mix of Gewurztraminer and Viognier with a dollop of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. A top U.S. importer, Kobrand, brings Alta Vista to the U.S. — that should be enough to sell you on it.
Alta Vista Premium Torrontes Argentina 2013, $20: Intense aromas of honeysuckle, orange zest, citrus and pineapple are followed by tart flavors of lemon-lime-grapefruit and herbs with drying floral notes and tart quince. It’s complex and nicely balanced with firm acidity. It’s from the best area of Salta on terraces 5,400 feet above sea level. To be specific, it’s from Cafayate Valley, one of the highest places in the world suitable for grape growing. This wine doesn’t see any oak.
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