Origin
The Calchaquí Valley is in the Salta region, northern Argentina. Situated in the foothills of the Andes it is the highest wine region in the world; the altitude ensures that nights are cool which is vital for keeping the wines fresh. Drip irrigation is necessary as the vineyards receive as little as 15cm of rain a year.
Grape Variety
90% Torrontés and 10% Riesling.
The grapes go through a double collection process, in the vineyard and on the sorting table in the winery. Slow fermentation at controlled temperatures follows in order to retain the character of each grape variety. Aged in steel tanks for 3 months prior to 2 months in the bottle.
Alcohol Percentage
13.5%
Cellar Potential
Drink now and over the next 18 months.
Producer
Amalaya is part of Hess Family Estates - which began in 1844 - also including Colome in Argentina, Glen Carlou in South Africa, The Hess Collection in California and Peter Lehmann in Australia. Now in its forth generation, the collection of wine producing houses is owned by Swiss financier Donald Hess.
Food Match
Lovely aperitif, but matches well with delicate and gently spiced shellfish, e.g. crab and chilli pasta sauce, Thai fish soup.
In the press
Gold- Decanter World Wine Awards 2016 and 2015
"Complex and beautiful nose with flinty, floral and guava notes. Clever use of Riesling which highlights Torrontés and works as a perfect partner. Vibrant, fresh and fruity on the palate, with a delicate, mouth-watering salinity." 95 points - Judge's comments, Decanter World Wine Awards 2016
Trophy - Torrontés and Best Argentinian White- International Wine Challenge 2014 (2013 Vintage)
Gold- International Wine Challenge 2014 (2013 Vintage)
Gold- Decanter World Wine Awards 2014 (2013 Vintage)
Rhodri Smith (verified owner) – :
Love this. Freshness and crispness from the torrontes, then strength and depth of flavour from the Riesling.
Great on a summer’s day, stands up well to a lot of typical outside summer food.
I keep on buying.
matt.wagstaff (verified owner) – :
Fruity, vibrant, fresh and fun. Great character for small money, nice to have something so different!