Lagarde Altas Cumbres Torrontes 2019
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With the first vine planted in 1897, Lagarde is one of the oldest wineries in the Mendoza region with Malbec vines over 100 years old. With only two owning families in its history, Lagarde was acquired by the Pescarmona family in 1969. Today the winery is run by young sisters Sofia and Lucila Pescarmona, third generation of the winemaking family During the following decades Lagarde focused on defining its particular style of wines. Striving to consistently innovate Lagarde was the first Latin American producer to plant non-traditional varieties such as Viognier and Moscato Bianco, adding to its unique style. Since 1999, the wines have been under the dedicated supervision of winemaker, Juan Roby, who along with the Pescarmonas enjoy creating high-quality wine made from grapes grown exclusively on their winery-run vineyards. Today the winery and estate are run by third generation Pescarmonas, sisters Sofia and Lucila Pescarmona. Under their direction, Lagarde creates exceptional terroir character wines that reflect a strong sustainable commitment to the land and its people.
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.
The Salta region in northern Argentina is home to world’s highest vineyards. Near the town of Payogasta, the Colomé Altura Máxima vineyard is planted at 10,206 feet in elevation.
Salta is part of the Calchaquí Valley, which benefits from more than 300 days of sun per year, subjecting its vines to considerable ultraviolet radiation. The valley experiences strong high altitude winds, even in the “lower” vineyards, which are planted at 5,413 feet. Because of these elevations and resulting extreme conditions, vines produce lower yields and thicker-skinned grapes, resulting in concentrated, aromatic and well-structured wines.
In a truly unique region, the highly aromatic variety, Torrontes, thrives; intense sun exposure allows full ripening, while cooling winds maintain the grapes’ acidity levels and phenolic balance.
Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bonarda, Syrah, and, particularly, Tannat have the most potential among reds.
Upscale hotels, beautiful colonial architecture, a majestic Andean backdrop and impressive food and wine make the area attractive among tourists as well.
Salta is the fourth most important Argentine wine-producing region after Mendoza, San Juan, and La Rioja. Its oldest vineyards were planted in 1862.