What better way to celebrate the return of warm days than by enjoying some South American sunshine, in a glass. Interestingly, it is actually the cooler, higher elevations in both Chile and Argentina that produce some of their best Crisp & Light whites.
Argentina
Argentina may be best known around the world for its Malbec, a bold and flavourful red. But Argentina’s vast and diverse landscape and climate provides optimal growing conditions for many different grape varietals including whites, which the country is becoming increasingly well-known and celebrated for.
White grape varietals, like Argentina’s signature white wine, Torrontes, thrive in the country’s high elevation vineyards. The altitude, combined with warm days and cold nights, produces grapes with thick skins and high acidity.
Torrontes, made only in Argentina, is known for its distinctive floral aroma and fresh fruit and honey flavours. While it smells sweet, it actually delivers a refreshing acidity, making it an ideal choice for your Crisp & Light get together.
Chile
Right next to Argentina, on the Pacific side of South America, is Chile. This long sliver of land features varied terrain and climates, from the cold, high altitude of the Andes mountains, to the cool, brisk breezes along its long coastline.
It is the Casablanca coastal region and the Limari Valley that produces Chile’s best Sauvignon Blanc. The cool ocean breezes keep the grapes Crisp & Light as they ripen, which results in whites bursting with tropical aromas such as grapefruit and lime. Crisp, light and zesty on the palate, these whites pair beautifully with seafood, such as this Pan-Fried Haddock recipe, suggested for your Crisp & Light get together.