23/02/2014 – Amalaya, Blanco 2012

Amalaya, Blanco 2012, Argentina
The rise and fall in the popularity of Chardonnay was a real phenomenon: from worldwide popularity to pariah within a decade. Since then, grapes like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Albarino have pressed consumer buttons. The thing they have in common? No oak, and a fresh appeal. A grape in the same mould that I have always enjoyed is Argentina’s Torrontes, but I know that its floral character can be overdone and that wafting perfume is enough to put some drinkers off. Here, Amalaya, from the very far north and high altitude vineyards of Salta in Argentina, have clevery restrained the grape’s exuberance and they have blended in 15% of cool and sophisticated Riesling to create a wine that does have flowers and herbs on the nose, but also a clean and vibrant lime zest freshness. On the palate there is a rich texture and peach and apricot sweetness, but the Riesling again adds a clever and keen edge of mouthwatering acidity. It is a little cracker. Watch the video for more information. £8.50, winetrust100.co.uk. See all stockists on wine-searcher.com.