Our Argentine White Wine

While Argentina has earned worldwide acclaim for its exceptional Malbecs, its white wines remain one of the best-kept secrets of the wine world. Between the foothills of the Andes and sun-drenched plains, Argentine vineyards produce white wines with a strong personality, where high-altitude freshness meets sun-kissed ripeness in a fascinating balance.

Torrontés: Argentina’s Aromatic Signature

A Unique Grape Variety

Torrontés is the pride of Argentina’s white wine scene. This native grape, born from the crossing of Muscat of Alexandria and Mission (Criolla Chica), is found nowhere else in the world in this form. Its story is deeply intertwined with Spanish colonization and the evolution of South American viticulture.

Today, there are mainly three varieties: Torrontés Riojano (the highest quality),Torrontés Sanjuanino and Torrontés Mendocino. Each expresses its own aromatic nuances depending on the region.

An Explosive Aromatic Profile

What makes Torrontés so fascinating is its sensory paradox:

• On the nose: an intense floral explosion (rose, jasmine, orange blossom) combined with citrus and exotic fruit notes
• On the palate: a surprising freshness and dry structure that contrast with its aromatic promises
• Finish: often marked by a refreshing hint of bitterness and delicate minerality

Outstanding Terroirs

Torrontés shows its noblest expression in the high-altitude valleys of northwest Argentina:

• Cafayate (Salta): At over 1700 meters above sea level, these vineyards produce the country’s most refined and aromatic Torrontés, with remarkable tension and freshness thanks to extreme diurnal temperature variations.
• La Rioja: The grape’s historic cradle, where it develops a rounder, more accessible profile while retaining its aromatic signature.
• Mendoza: At lower altitudes, Torrontés here shows a more generous and fruity character.

Beyond Torrontés: Unexpected Diversity

Criolla Blanca: A Return to Roots

Criolla Blanca takes you on a journey back in time through Argentine wine history. This ancestral grape, introduced by Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, is now experiencing a renaissance thanks to winemakers passionate about heritage and tradition.

• Aromatic profile: More discreet than Torrontés, with notes of green apple, pear, and fresh herbs
• Structure: Often creamy in texture, with vibrant natural acidity and a saline finish
• Terroirs: Mostly cultivated in historic regions like San Juan and Mendoza

Producers like Paso a Paso are reviving this grape by crafting cuvées of great authenticity—living testaments to Argentina’s wine heritage.

The Daring White Malbec

A surprising innovation in the Argentine wine scene, White Malbec

showcases the creativity of today’s winemakers. It’s not a white grape, but the renowned Malbec vinified as a white wine, without skin contact.

• Technique: Very gentle direct pressing, low-temperature fermentation
• Aromas: White-fleshed fruits (peach, nectarine), subtle floral notes
• Structure: Unexpected freshness, vibrant tension, often with a saline touch
• Pioneering producers: Colosso Wines with its “Indomable” cuvée, Zuccardi

This innovative approach reveals a little-known side of Malbec and opens new doors for Argentine winemaking.

International White Grapes at Altitude

Argentina is also exploring the potential of international white varieties, which thrive in high-altitude terroirs and express themselves with a distinctive local touch:

• Chardonnay: Particularly successful in cool areas like the Uco Valley, where it develops lovely mineral tension and citrus aromas
• Sauvignon Blanc: Expressive and aromatic at altitude, with a more herbaceous and vibrant profile than in other parts of the world
• Viognier: Thrives in warmer areas, offering aromatic richness and creaminess while maintaining freshness
• Chenin Blanc: Rediscovered by a few producers, especially in San Juan, valued for its natural acidity and aging potential

The Crucial Influence of Altitude

A Key Factor in Quality
Altitude is the secret weapon behind Argentina’s white wines. In a country with a generally warm climate, vineyards located between 1,000 and 3,000 meters benefit from exceptional conditions:

• Cool nights: Preserve natural acidity and aromatic freshness
• Increased sunlight: Enhances phenolic ripeness without excess sugar
• Natural disease protection: Reduces the need for treatments
• Moderate water stress: Concentrates flavors and aromas

These unique conditions allow the production of remarkably fresh white wines, despite Argentina’s southern latitude.

Food Pairings: A Symphony of Flavors

The diversity of Argentine whites offers a fascinating palette for food pairings:

• Torrontés: Ideal with lightly spicy Asian cuisines (Thai, Vietnamese), ceviche, or fresh goat cheeses—as showcased during our tasting at the Cheese Museum
• Criolla Blanca: Pairs beautifully with lightly sauced fish dishes, herb-based plates, or soft cheeses
• White Malbec: A surprising match for dishes featuring white meats, Mediterranean vegetables, or even sushi
• Chardonnay or Viognier: Wonderful with creamy poultry dishes, pasta with seafood, or roasted squash
• Sauvignon Blanc: Perfect with grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, or tangy cheeses like feta
• Chenin Blanc: Great with spicy dishes, shellfish, or even aged cheeses thanks to its acidity and depth

The Promising Future of Argentine White Wines

Climate change, while posing a challenge for global viticulture, paradoxically opens up new opportunities for Argentine white wines:

• Exploration of new terroirs: Higher up in the Andes or further south in Patagonia
• Experimentation with resilient grape varieties: Adapting to future climate conditions
• Innovative winemaking techniques: Low-temperature fermentations, aging on lees, use of alternative vessels instead of new oak

Argentine winemakers, known for their spirit of innovation, continue to push boundaries to craft white wines that are increasingly precise and expressive.

An Invitation to Discover
Argentine white wines offer a thrilling oenological journey for wine lovers seeking new experiences. From the emblematic Torrontés to experimental White Malbec cuvées, and the historical heritage of Criolla, they tell a fascinating story that blends ancient tradition with contemporary innovation.

Their excellent value for money and their ability to combine aromatic richness with freshness make them ideal companions at the table—sure to surprise even the most discerning palates. A discovery well worth your attention!

Back to our collection of Argentine Wines.