Bodega Piedra Negra Torrontés Alta Colección 2020
Crisp, aromatic dry white wine. This is a classic example of Argentine Torrontés made in a fresh, stainless-steel-driven style to preserve purity of fruit. · Bodega Piedra Negra, owned by the Lurton family (François Lurton). It is a highly respected estate in the Uco Valley, known for pioneering organic and sustainable viticulture in the region and bringing French winemaking expertise to Argentina.
Vintage: 2020 was a warm and dry vintage in Mendoza. While this led to an earlier than average harvest, it produced wines with high aromatic concentration and excellent health, though freshness (acidity) required careful management.
Type
Crisp, aromatic dry white wine. This is a classic example of Argentine Torrontés made in a fresh, stainless-steel-driven style to preserve purity of fruit.
Producer
Bodega Piedra Negra, owned by the Lurton family (François Lurton). It is a highly respected estate in the Uco Valley, known for pioneering organic and sustainable viticulture in the region and bringing French winemaking expertise to Argentina.
Country
Argentina, a major South American producer known for its high-altitude viticulture. Argentina has a classification system based on Geographical Indications (GI) and is the global leader in both Malbec and the native Torrontés variety.
Vintage
2020 was a warm and dry vintage in Mendoza. While this led to an earlier than average harvest, it produced wines with high aromatic concentration and excellent health, though freshness (acidity) required careful management.
Region & Appellation
Mendoza, Uco Valley (Valle de Uco). This sub-region is prized for its high elevation, which provides the cooling influence necessary for maintaining acidity in white varieties like Torrontés.
Grape Varieties
100% Torrontés Riojano. This variety is unique to Argentina and celebrated for its highly aromatic profile, often described as having the nose of a sweet wine but the palate of a bone-dry white.
Color & Appearance
Pale straw-yellow with greenish highlights. It is a brilliant, clear wine with low viscosity, indicating its light and refreshing nature.
Aroma Profile
Intense and floral with primary notes of jasmine, orange blossom, and rose petals. It further displays fruity aromas of white peach, citrus zest, and a hint of fresh lychee.
Tasting Notes
The palate is lively and light-bodied. It opens with bright citrus and stone fruit flavors, followed by a floral mid-palate. The finish is clean, crisp, and slightly herbaceous with a characteristic touch of bitterness that adds complexity.
Flavor Profile
Predominant flavors of lime, grapefruit, and green apple, layered with floral infusions and a distinct mineral streak. There is an evolution from bright citrus to a soft, peach-like sweetness on the mid-palate despite being dry.
Body & Texture
Light to medium-bodied. The texture is smooth but lean, focusing on a refreshing mouthfeel rather than weight or oiliness.
Acidity & Tannins
High acidity that feels racy and bright. There are no tannins, but there is a slight phenolic grip on the finish that provides structure.
Sweetness Level
Dry (Sec). Despite the sweet floral aromas, the wine contains very low residual sugar (typically under 2g/L), making it refreshing and food-friendly.
Alcohol Content
12.5% to 13.5% ABV. The alcohol is well-integrated and provides a light warmth without being heavy, typical for this altitude and variety.
Aging & Oak
No oak aging. The wine is fermented and aged in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks on fine lees to maintain its primary aromatic intensity and fresh fruit character.
Food Pairings
Perfect for spicy cuisines such as Thai or Indian, as the floral fruitiness balances heat. It also pairs beautifully with fresh seafood (ceviche), goat cheese salads, and empanadas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve well-chilled at 8-10°C (46-50°F). Use a standard white wine glass or a universal glass. No decanting required. Best enjoyed while young and fresh.
Price Range
$12.00 - $16.00 USD. Represents excellent value as a high-quality, entry-level aromatic white.
Quality Assessment
87-89 points. A high-quality 'Premium' tier everyday wine that consistently delivers regional typicity and clean winemaking.
Production Methods
Hand-harvested grapes, gentle pneumatic pressing, and cool fermentation in stainless steel. The winemaking focuses on protective handling to prevent oxidation of the delicate floral terpenes.
Terroir
Alluvial soils with gravel and sand in the Uco Valley. The high altitude (approx. 1,100 meters) ensures significant diurnal temperature shifts, which concentrate aromas while preserving natural acidity.
History & Heritage
François Lurton arrived in Argentina in the 1990s and was one of the first to recognize the potential of the Vista Flores area in the Uco Valley, establishing Piedra Negra in 1996.
Interesting Facts
Piedra Negra is a leader in organic farming in Argentina. Torrontés Riojano is actually a natural cross between Muscat of Alexandria and Criolla Chica (Mission grape).
Cellaring Potential
Drink now through 2024. This wine is not intended for long-term aging; it is at its peak within 2-3 years of the vintage when the floral aromas are most vibrant.
Similar Wines
Susana Balbo Crios Torrontés, Colomé Torrontés, or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and dry Alsatian Muscat for those who enjoy aromatic, high-acid whites.