El Esteco Don David Reserve Torrontes 2008
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Pair with foods such as scallops, salmon, quiche, pate, chicken and asparagus.
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2022- Vinous
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Suckling
James -
Spirits
Wine &
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Suckling
James
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Parker
Robert
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Parker
Robert
With over 1500 acres of vineyards, El Esteco is the most important winery in the CalchaquÍ Valley of Argentina. An inhospitable but magical place, at dizzying heights of 1700 meters (5600 feet), that breathes life into extraordinary wines. It is a winery that challenges preconceptions, believing in the opportunity to create wines that stand out from the norm.
It is a winery that seeks to surprise, to create distinct wines that highlight the unique characteristics of the CalchaquÍ Valley terroirs. The unique climate of this place manifests itself in the elegant profile of El Esteco’s wines, with colors, aromas and flavors accentuated by the sun and the altitude. These are wines with an indelible sense of place, wines which complement food rather than overpower, wines which are true to their origin.
Unapologetically fun and distinctively fragrant, Torrontés is regarded as the signature white grape of Argentina. In many ways it bears a striking resemblance to Muscat (and in fact is an offspring of Muscat of Alexandria). Sommelier Secret—If you’re in search of a new summer sipper, look no further than Torrontés. These wines are always inexpensive, delightfully refreshing and are best enjoyed in the sunny outdoors at a picnic, poolside or on the porch.
With vineyards tretching along the eastern side of the Andes Mountains from Patagonia in the south to Salta in the north, Argentina is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic wine producing countries—and most important in South America.
Since the late 20th century vineyard investments, improved winery technology and a commitment to innovation have all contributed to the country’s burgeoning image as a producer of great wines at all price points. The climate here is diverse but generally continental and agreeable, with hot, dry summers and cold snowy winters—a positive, as snow melt from the Andes Mountains is used heavily to irrigate vineyards. Grapes very rarely have any difficulty achieving full ripeness.
Argentina’s famous Mendoza region, responsible for more than 70% of Argentina’s wine production, is further divided into several sub-regions, with Luján de Cuyo and the Uco Valley most noteworthy. Red wines dominate here, especially Malbec, the country’s star variety, while Chardonnay is the most successful white.
The province of San Juan is best known for blends of Bonarda and Syrah. Torrontés is a specialty of the La Rioja and Salta regions, the latter of which is also responsible for excellent Malbecs grown at very high elevation.