Wine Wednesday: Terrazas Torrontes

Argentina is justifiably renowned for its Malbec. But, especially for summer sipping, there's another Argentine varietal that I adore: Torrontes. Torrontes is a grape used to make white wine and it's grown almost solely in Argentina. Torrontes makes spicy, floral white wines that are somewhat similar to Gewurztraminer, but lighter and drier.

A particularly good Torrontes is one that I recently tasted: Terrazas de los Andes Reserva Torrontes 2011 ($15). It's produced in Salta, in the northern part of Argentina, and made from 100% unoaked Torrontes. 

Since it's not aged in oak, the wine retains its beautifully fresh floral and fruit aromas. On the palate, there are gorgeous pear, passion fruit, lychee, mango and pineapple flavors -- it's a tropical fruit bomb! Despite its fruitiness, this Torrontes is dry enough to pair with a wide range of foods, and would be an especially good addition to your summer-picnic basket.