Vallisto Torrontes 2024

Get to Know: Vallisto Torrontes

Tasting Note

A proper zinger of a white wine – fresh, floral and full of flavour. Vallisto Torrontés 2023 comes from way up in Argentina’s Cafayate Valley, and it shows in the bright, crisp character. Expect loads of elderflower, lychee and peach on the nose, with jasmine and orange blossom jumping out of the glass. It’s dry and zingy on the palate, with a lovely citrusy tang and a clean, mouth-watering finish. Brilliant on its own but also a cracking match with food.

Try it with Thai green curry, vegan rice paper rolls with hoisin dipping sauce or a young goat’s cheese or a soft bloomy rind like Camembert.

Kate Says

"This is one of those wines that makes you sit up and take notice in the best way. It smells gorgeous, really perfumed, but when you taste it, it’s super fresh and dry. It’s got all the charm of a floral white but with a bit more bite. Brilliant if you love Sauvignon Blanc or want something a bit different to sip in the sunshine."

Producer Info

Vallisto is a small, quality-focused winery based in Cafayate, in Argentina’s far north. The name means "person from the valley" – a nod to their deep roots in the local area. It was set up in 2010 by Pancho Lavaque, whose family has been in wine for generations, and British winemaker Hugh Ryman, who brings a more modern touch.

The grapes for this Torrontés come from very old vines – over 70 years – growing at 1,700 to 2,000 metres above sea level. That altitude means cooler nights, which helps the wine keep its freshness and bright acidity, even in the sunny climate.

In the winery, they go for a light touch. Grapes are hand-picked and gently pressed in a pneumatic press to avoid bitterness. Fermentation happens naturally using the yeasts already on the grapes. It all takes place in concrete tanks (no oak here), to keep the pure, clean fruit character. There’s no fining or filtration, and no messing about with added acidity or flavour tweaks.