An unlikely place to grow grapes, the Calchaqui Valley in Argentina is located in a rocky, desert-like region of the Andes Mountains. At 5,000 to 6,000 feet above sea level, these irrigated vineyards are actually close to the equator; yet the warm days and very cool nights produce grapes of remarkably intense flavor. Today’s wine, a combination of Torrontés (a bit like the Albariño grape) and Riesling, makes a bracing white that will entice you.
2016 Amalaya Blanco, Salta, Argentina $12 srp
Bright, light golden color. A salty, sharp lemon rind nose plus expansive tropical fruit sensations. This is mouthwateringly inviting. Flavors knife through your taste buds with a grapefruit, lemony tang. Mouth-puckering freshness for a hot summer day, try with Ceviche, a cold shrimp salad or to cool down after cutting the grass. (Why should beer have all the fun?) Dry and distinctive, made from 85% Torrontés and 15% Riesling, drink it now-2018.
89/100 points (Great value)
