Trivento, a leading estate in Mendoza, Argentina, and U.S. importer Excelsior Wines, North America’s largest importer of South American wines, announce the spring release of “White Orchid,” an innovative Torrontes blend. With an approximate retail price of $11, Trivento White Orchid Reserve Torrontes 2016 rounds out Argentina’s flagship white grape with the inclusion of 15% Pinot Grigio. Grapes for the new wine originate in Trivento’s high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza’s Uco Valley.

White Orchid reflects a subtle yet discernible shift in style in terms of Torrontes, with the interplay between the two grape varieties delivering a result that surpasses both. The outcome, according to Trivento winemaker Maxi Ortiz, is an off-dry, lighter-framed white, with a relatively modest alcohol level of 12%. Aromas of flowers, pineapple, chamomile and white pepper associated with Torrontes combine on the palate with notes of golden apple and citrus identified with Pinot Grigio. “It’s a fantastic alternative to Pinot Grigio,” states Ortiz, “a hint of sweet without being sweet, lots of action on the nose, and a harmonious, more nuanced palate that segues into a refreshing, lingering finish.”

Grapes for White Orchid were hand-harvested during the first week of March 2016 in vineyards owned by Trivento, supplemented by small amounts of fruit purchased from growers under long-term contracts. On arrival at the winery, the fruit was destemmed and crushed, with 100% cold skin contact ahead of a 15-day fermentation in stainless steel tanks at 59°F, to preserve aromatics and flavor.

White Orchid is the latest addition to Trivento’s Reserve range. Approachable and affordable, Trivento Reserves serve as a first-rate primer to the wines of Mendoza, Argentina’s largest and best-known wine region. All are made by Ortiz, a Mendoza native who apprenticed with the renowned consulting enologist Alberto Antonini.

Trivento White Orchid 2016 retails for approx. $11 a bottle.

Read more at Source: Wine Industry Advisor