Match 6 has Germany facing Argentina in a classic Quarterfinals battle on the pitch and a war of aromatic whites off the field. Native to Argentina, the Torrontés grape produces lovely white wines that have refreshing acidity and thrive in cold, dry conditions - similar to Riesling grown in Germany. Both wines are under $25 and both are new to us at Icon Wines.
Region: Rheingau
Cost: $19.99
Alcohol: 12%
Notes: Dry but fruity with the slightest hint of residual sugar coming from the concentrated fruit flavours. Tangy citrus palate with lemon sorbet and grapefruit peel. Youthful aromas of lime zest and slate. Good quality and well balanced.
Region: Cafayate
Cost: $17.99
Alcohol: 13.5%
Notes: Dry with just the slightest residual sugar. Aromas of honey, spring flowers, apricots, tangerines and light minerals notes. Flavours of citrus fruit and bitter steel with vibrant acidity. Good quality and well balanced. Good typicity for a Torrontés.
The Conclusion:
Complexity (Nose): Crios de Susana Balbo
Complexity (Palate): Schloss Reinhartshausen
Food Friendly: Schloss Reinhartshausen
Concentration: Schloss Reinhartshausen
Expression of Terroir: Crios de Susana Balbo
Value: Crios de Susana Balbo
Winner: Crios de Susana Balbo
The off-field match-up was very tight (as was the battle on the pitch). The Torrontés wins the battle for its expression of terroir and vibrancy. If you have yet to try an Argentina Torrontés do so soon! It makes a unique alternative to traditional Riesling.
- Liam Carrier
Next Match: TBA - If Spain goes through we'll have a Semi-Final match with two world wine powers facing off.
Thanks for the post Liam, our vote is for the torrontes as well!
ReplyDeleteThanks again,
Ikal Wines