Torrontes is a white wine grape variety from Argentina that includes three varieties. The most widely planted is Torrontés Riojano, which has been noted for creating superb wines. This variation is used mainly for Argentine wines with the name Torrontes. The Torrontés Sanjuanino variation generates large bundles of pale grapes, while the Torrontes Mendocino produces small bunches of grapes that are darker in color. A red wine grape variety called Torrontes is also available, but it goes under the name of Tarrantes and Turrundos. The grape variety produces nice and crisp wines that are acidic, aromatic and include a nice velvety texture. Torrontes wine includes fresh peach and apricot fruit flavors, and is ideal for early drinking. These wines tend to have quiet spice aromas and floral scents. The quality and taste of the wine depends on the winemaking process and the outcome is mainly due to the skill of the maker. The taste of Torrontes wines is said to be similar to Muscat, however, some wine experts assert that the taste also closely resembles Gewurztraminer. The wine should be consumed a year after it is created because the wine typically does not age well.
The "yaguarete" (jaguar) on the label was known by the ancient Andean people as the "lord of the starred night"; the wildest known animal.
Chakana is the name of the Southern Cross constellation. Its rotation in the sky throughout the year made it an effective agricultural calendar for the ancient Andean people.
Estate Torrontes is from Chakana's Gualtallary vineyard (5,300 ft elevation).
The wine shows the typical aromas of Torrontes (white flowers, lychee, peach) balanced by a refreshing acidity. Mineral texture due do the rocky soil of the vineyard. Elegant, dry and clean finish.
Fermentation with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels. Aged 4 months. Pairs with crab cakes and seafood pasta.
Dark fruit with hints of blackberry cobbler, graphite, and sandalwood. Mostly grown on warmer sites of the Walla Walla Valley including our estate, Bob Healy Vineyard. Beautiful tannins that are lush and have a strong core that broadens out last minute to an ultra-long finish. A really pleasing and luxurious wine.
Review:
Ripe blue and blackberry notes with floral quality, minty cherries and elegant oak spices undertones. Chocolatey texture on the palate, dense and concentrated, rounded. Dense core of dark plummy fruit supported by a refreshing acidity.
-Decanter 97 Points
Alain Jaume Tavel Rose Le Cretace is made from 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre
Rosé de saignée (bleed technique) with a vibrant ruby color, complex and elegant, notes of crushed strawberries and rose petals.
Tavel Le Cretace Rose gives up vibrant wild strawberry, watermelon, crushed flowers and hints of spice to go with a medium-bodied, layered and seamless profile on the palate. A classic rose from this appellation, enjoy this beauty with food over the coming year or two.
Pair with roasted and/or spicy Turkey, sushi, seafood and grilled fish, Asian food.