Torrentes caresses with its floral aromatics

BY W. PETER HOYNE

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The 2011 Colome Torrentes is part of the Hess Family Estates, founded by Donald Hess, whose reputation was built on Cabernet Sauvignon | Larry Ruehl~Sun-Times Media

2011 Colome Torrentes, Colchaqi Valley, Argentina

Colome is one of seven brands under the Hess Family Estates, founded by Donald Hess. Donald’s reputation was built on Cabernet Sauvignon from the western hills of Mt. Veeder in Napa Valley. With consumers expanding their interest in alternative varietals, the Colome brand, offering Malbec and Torrentes from Argentina, was incorporated into the Hess portfolio.

Colome is one of the oldest wineries in Argentina and is situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet in the Colchaqi Valley of Argentina. Torrentes is the most widely planted white grape varietals in Argentina and the rival sibling to the more well recognized Malbec. Originally believed to be of Spanish origin, it was later discovered that Torrentes was a cross between the Mission grapes of Galicia, Spain and the Muscat of Alexandre.

The attraction to this wine is its caressing floral aromatics that are reminiscent of Muscat and Gewurztraminer. Initially there is a misperception that this wine may be sweet because of it’s opulent spicy nose, but it then becomes evident after the first taste that the wine is off-dry and driven by firmly textured minerals within a core of white peach, jasmine and acacia flowers. This is a wine that can be intriguing and refreshing while constantly stimulating your thought process and urging you to try another sip.

Suggested Retail: $13.99

W. Peter Hoyne has been a wine journalist for over 20 years, covering stories of national and international significance. While his professional relationships in the wine industry have allowed him to share a unique perspective of wine, he is also intrigued by the culinary aspect and harmony that exist between wine and food. As a wine advocate, he is committed to consumer education and is focused on upcoming trends and American wine-buying habits.