Drink
You're probably going to be hearing more about torrontes, the white grape that is becoming Argentina's second best-known variety after malbec. It's the latest exotic white (think gruner-veltliner, albarino, and viognier) to fill in the vast divide between white wine's ubiquitous poles, the richness of chardonnay and the austere snap of sauvignon blanc.
You're probably going to be hearing more about torrontes, the white grape that is becoming Argentina's second best-known variety after malbec. It's the latest exotic white (think gruner-veltliner, albarino, and viognier) to fill in the vast divide between white wine's ubiquitous poles, the richness of chardonnay and the austere snap of sauvignon blanc.
Torrontes, grown in Argentina for less than two decades, leans closer to sauvignon's tart side, but also has an intensely aromatic nose and almondy finish to give it interest. This 2004 vintage from Norton has a golden hue and a vivid perfume of tangerine that rides on lightly honeyed sweetness to an almost salty bitter-almond finish. The best part about torrontes, though, is that it is almost always a great value, usually around $10.
The Norton torrontes, on sale for $5.99 at Canal's Bottle Stop in Marlton (800-327-5054), is an exceptional bargain. It's also available in Pennsylvania by special order for $9.49 (FYI: The LCB catalog misspells it as
torrentes
).
- Craig LaBan