Torrontel
Definition - What does Torrontel mean?
In the context of wine grape varietals, Torrontel is a white grape varietal of Argentina. The grape is a member of vitis vinifera and is known to have pronounced flavors and aromas of spice, floral and fruit with moderate acidity, a smooth body and mouthfeel. The vine is successful in the cooler climates found at high elevation in Argentinan vineyards.
WineFrog explains Torrontel
This white Argentinian grape is used to make aromatic and fresh tasting wines with heady floral aromas and fruit flavors, along with a smooth mouthfeel and moderate acidity. There are 3 sub species of Torrontel: Torrontés Riojano, Torrontés Sanjuanino, and Torrontés Mendocino. While these 3 grapes share many similarities, they have noticeable differences both in how the grapes grow and in their flavor profiles. While Torrontés Riojano is the most common and considered the most aromatic with its tight clusters of deep yellow grapes, Torrontés Riojano and Torrontés Sanjuanino have loose clusters of pale grapes and are widely planted throughout Argentina. Winemakers can be challenged to balance the acidity with the intense aromas and flavors when using these grapes to produce wines, however these wines have become popular exports from Argentina.
