Description
Torrontés is a white wine grape from Argentina. Three Argentine varieties share the name, and Torrontés Riojano is the most highly valued of them. DNA work showed it is a natural cross of Muscat of Alexandria with Criolla Chica, also known as Listán Prieto or Mission. Its muscat ancestry gives fresh, light, floral wines with good acidity, though they can turn alcoholic and slightly bitter.
Characteristics
White wine grape; muscat flavour; Muscat of Alexandria × Criolla Chica (Listán Prieto); medium to large bunches and berries; fairly thick skin; productive and very vigorous; semi-erect habit; mid-season, 2.5–3 weeks after Chasselas; floral, aromatic wines
Growing Tips
French trials describe Torrontés Riojano as very vigorous and productive, with a semi-erect habit and good adaptability. It ripens mid-season, about two and a half to three weeks after Chasselas. Pick on time to keep the floral freshness, since wines from overripe fruit can become alcoholic and bitter. In Argentina harvest falls in February and March.