Altaland Torrontés 2015 Salta, Argentina 75cl

Altaland is a range built to showcase the breadth of Argentina’s wine regions, from Salta in the north to Patagonia in the south. This bottling comes from Salta, home to some of the highest vineyards in the world and the spiritual heartland of Torrontés, where the grape reaches its most expressive form.

The wine is pure Torrontés, Argentina’s signature aromatic white, grown here in and around Cafayate. High-altitude sunshine and cool nights give the grape its heady perfume while keeping the wine fresh, and it is made in an unoaked style to let that aromatic character lead. The result is a wine that is all about scent and freshness.

This is the 2015 vintage. Torrontés is usually drunk young for its perfume, so an older bottle like this will show a more mellow, less overtly floral character than a recent release. It remains a curiosity for the aromatic-white fan.

Expect a fragrant nose of roses, orange blossom and citrus, with a light, dry palate and a gently spiced, refreshing finish. Serve well chilled as an aperitif, or with aromatic and lightly spiced dishes, fresh salads or a ceviche. It is best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Torrontés is one of the friendliest ways into Argentine white wine, aromatic yet dry and easy to enjoy. If you like Gewürztraminer or dry Muscat, this Salta white offers a similar perfume with a crisp, northern-Argentine twist worth exploring. Chill it well and it makes a bright, welcoming pour at the start of a meal or on a warm afternoon.