Historically the oldest of the wine-producing provinces, and home of the Torrontés Riojano, La Rioja had only 8,000 ha/20,000 acres of vineyard in 2003. By world standards the area is unimportant, although aromatic white wines from the torrontés grape can be good, and wines made from the Moscatel de Alexandria (muscat of alexandria) have a following in Argentina itself. The lack of water for irrigation purposes makes wine-making a marginal activity.
Tasting notes: Torrontés can be a tricky grape; poor vinification can easily lead to flabby wines that lack crispness and definition, and blousy wines with overblown aromatics. So, it’s important to know your label and your producer. Mauricio Lorca is increasingly known for his gift with this labour-intensive but rewarding variety. This delicious, refreshing example is testament not only to his skill, but proof positive that when it comes to Torrontés there is life beyond Salta. Mauricio’s grapes are grown in Famatina Valley in La Rioja and this wine is a skillfully crafted exponent of the region.
"Savoury, meaty side of Torrontés ...very lively and interesting ..."
Janis Robinson's Purple Pages, May 2010.
