El Enemigo Gran Enemigo Torrontes 2019 750ml

There is a new white 2019 Gran Enemigo Torrontés from a parral vineyard planted in Gualtallary in 2009. This fermented in concrete, tinaja and oak foudre, and the tinajas and foudres are never topped up; so, the wine develops a thin layer of flor yeast, and the wines mature for around one year. It’s elegant, subtle and not so aromatic; it doesn’t smell of Moscatel, the typical aroma from Torrontés. It’s a look at the Mosel from Gualtallary, crystalline, precise and clean, with 12.5% alcohol and very good freshness. It doesn’t go through malolactic, and it’s akin to a German Riesling with notes of white flowers and fruit, jasmine and a faint spicy touch. Alejandro Vigil told me this was inspired by Dirk Niepoort, who taught him how to drink Riesling. This is vibrant and tasty, very balanced, elegant and precise, with chalky and salty sensations in the finish. This is the first commercial release after trials that started in 2016. 7,000 bottles produced. Amazing.

• Country: Argentina
• Region: Cuyo
• Appellation: Mendoza
• Sub Appellation: Uco Valley
• Size: 750ml
• Color: White
• Alcohol by Vol: 12.5%

Varietal

Torrontes

Torrontés is Argentina’s flagship white grape variety, celebrated for its intensely aromatic profile and crisp acidity. Though its exact origins remain debated, it is believed to be a natural cross between Criolla Chica (Mission grape) and Muscat of Alexandria, which explains its signature floral and fruity characteristics. The finest Torrontés wines come from high-altitude vineyards in Salta, particularly Cafayate, where cooler temperatures help retain freshness and enhance aromatics.

What makes Torrontés unique is its Muscat-like perfume, with notes of orange blossom, jasmine, rose petals, and honeysuckle, alongside flavors of ripe peach, apricot, citrus, and tropical fruit. Despite its sweet aroma, most Torrontés wines are dry, with bright acidity that balances the fruitiness.

This grape thrives in sunny, arid conditions, producing wines that are light-bodied, fresh, and food-friendly. It pairs well with spicy cuisine, seafood, and aromatic dishes, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy expressive, floral white wines.