It was an Argentine kind of evening or I should say more specifically the wine region of Salta Argentina. On this night we sample two wines from Bodega Colomé, a winery located in the Calchaqui Valley.
Colomé is one of the oldest wineries in Argentina dating back to 1831. Furthermore, the winery’s location in the Salta region of Northwestern Argentina is considered one of the highest vineyards in the world. Colomé’s roots stocks, originally imported from Bordeaux go back to the late 1800s. After being acquired in 2001, the winery became part of the Hess Family Wine Estates.
Colomé winemaker, Thibaut Delmotte focuses on Argentina’s most well-known varietals, Malbec and Torrontés. Through biodynamic and sustainable practices, older vines and the high altitude, these wines reflect their Argentine heritage.
Colomé 2016 Torrontés:
Torrontés also known as the white wine of Argentina is considered one of the main varietals produced in the Salta region. The wine is refreshing and bright. Aromas of white flowers especially orange blossoms permeate the wine. On the palate, one finds a delicate sweetness of citrus, tropical fruit in addition to some stone fruit. There is a Riesling quality to the wine.
We paired the Torrontés with an arugula and nectarine salad. The nice acidity of this refreshing wine with the crisp greens made for a perfect match.
Colomé 2014 Malbec:
Argentina and Malbec go hand in hand but for me, this was my first Malbec from the Salta region. Everything about this Malbec impressed me. The grapes come from 4 different vineyards. The wine ages15 months in French oak and followed by 6 months aging in the bottle. While this wine is smooth and balanced with flavors of blackberries and dark fruit, the wine’s richness finishes with pepper and hints of tobacco.
We paired this Malbec with a Santa Maria styled tri-tip.
Though I am pretty well versed in wines from the Mendoza region, I now see the need to expand my knowledge of Argentina and learn more about the Salta region.