Argentina Through Wine
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Chapter 2 of 5

The aromatic profile

Argentina Through Wine · Chapter 2 of 5 · 2 min read

Here's a detail that trips up even seasoned drinkers. “Torrontés” is really a family of three closely related grapes:

  • Torrontés Riojano — the star. The most planted, the most aromatic, and the source of essentially every good Torrontés you'll ever drink.
  • Torrontés Sanjuanino — the middle child, mostly grown in San Juan, less aromatic.
  • Torrontés Mendocino — the least aromatic and least planted.

In practice, this is simple: when a quality bottle just says “Torrontés,” it's almost always Riojano. The other two are workhorses you'll rarely meet by name.

The aromatic profile
Up next, Chapter 3 of 5 Torrontés grows across Argentina La Rioja, Mendoza, San Juan but it reaches its peak in the high-altitude north, above all around… Read Chapter 3: The high-altitude style →

Understanding Argentine Wine (FAQ)

What makes Argentine Malbec so unique?

Argentina's high-altitude vineyards, particularly in Mendoza's Uco Valley, receive intense sunlight and experience dramatic temperature shifts between day and night. This slows grape ripening, resulting in rich flavors, balanced acidity, and smooth tannins.

How should I plan a wine tour in Mendoza?

We recommend booking tastings at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for prestigious wineries. Focus on one sub-region per day (like Luján de Cuyo or Uco Valley) to minimize travel time and enjoy a relaxed pace.

What are the best food pairings for Torrontés?

Torrontés, Argentina's signature white wine, is highly aromatic with floral notes. It pairs beautifully with spicy Asian cuisine, fresh seafood, and traditional Argentine empanadas (especially those containing corn or cheese).