Origins and Global Presence of Torrontés and Riesling
Torrontés: Argentina’s Signature White Torrontés stands out as one of the few truly indigenous grape varieties of the Americas, born from a natural crossing between Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica in Argentina’s Cuyo region during the late 1700s. This unique heritage gives Torrontés its unmistakable floral perfume and vibrant fruit character. While the name appears in Spain for unrelated grapes, the Torrontés of Argentina is entirely distinct, shaped by the country’s high-altitude vineyards and sun-drenched landscapes. Today, Torrontés is almost exclusively associated with Argentina, where it thrives in regions like Salta, La Rioja, Mendoza, and San Juan. The dramatic elevation of Salta’s vineyards, some of the highest in the world, helps the grape achieve its signature aromatic intensity and fresh acidity. Outside Argentina, Torrontés is grown only in small pockets—such as Bolivia, Chile, and California—though these wines rarely match the expressive style found in its homeland. As a result, Torrontés remains a true ambassador for Argentine white wine on the world stage.Riesling: The Noble Aromatic Classic Riesling traces its roots to Germany’s Rhine Valley, with records of its cultivation dating back to the early 15th century. Its parentage—Gouais Blanc and a Traminer-related vine—gives Riesling its remarkable balance of fruit, acidity, and aromatic lift. Over centuries, Riesling became the foundation of Germany’s most celebrated white wines, shaped by the country’s cool climate and long growing season, which allow the grape to develop its trademark complexity and purity. From its German heartland, Riesling has spread to wine regions around the globe. It is a signature grape in France’s Alsace, Austria’s Danube valleys, and Australia’s Clare and Eden Valleys, each putting its own stamp on the variety. In North America, Riesling has found success in New York’s Finger Lakes, Washington State, and Canada’s Niagara Peninsula—especially for ice wine. New Zealand’s South Island also produces bright, aromatic examples. Wherever it grows, Riesling’s ability to express place and produce wines from dry to lusciously sweet has made it a favorite among winemakers and wine lovers alike.