Amanda’s Pick: Susana Balbo, White Blend 2016

“I love some of the white blends coming out of Argentina at the moment and this exemplifies the growing trend. Balbo has always been known as the Queen of Torrontes, but this blend sees the addition of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc to her tasteful palate. It is filled with bright citrus and blossom notes, with a richness from barrel-ageing and has that thirst-quenching mineral note and acidity so typical of Altamira.”

Pablo’s Pick: Chardonnay 2016, Santiago Achaval

“Soon to be released, this white wine has been fermented in 50% new barrels and 50% of barrels of second use. It is very complex and silky in the mouth with lots of fruit and a balanced acidity. It is a great Chardonnay that reminds me of many great Chardonnays from Burgundy.”

Amanda’s Pick: Piedra Negra, Gran Lurton

“Sauvignon Vert is not a variety people usually talk about, but here Bordeaux winemaker Francois Lurton blends it with Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc to create a full-bodied white with freshness, juicy white peach notes and bright citrus notes. I had the pleasure of doing a vertical tasting of older vintages of this white with him recently, and I can guarantee this is one worthy of cellaring!”

Pablo’s Pick: Zenith Nadir 2014

“This white blend has Chardonnay, Fiano and Sauvignon Blanc fermented in barrels of first, second and third use. It is a very interesting blend that has many virtues with a complex mouth, long finish with marked acidity and a nose with a great expression combining fruit, freshness and complexity.

Amanda’s Pick: Mendel Semillon 2016

“Semillon was once the most planted white variety in Argentina, but all that remain are pockets of old vines dotted around the country. I’m a big fan of the Semillon revival happening in South America right now and this wine led the pack as the first. It’s still a great pour today, rich with a savoury nuttiness, a long finish and a bright acidity that will keep it fresh through the years.”

Pablo’s Pick: De Moño Rojo 2016

“A blend of Marsanne, Roussane and Viognier, this wine is fermented in a concrete egg and is a complex but fresh wine, with a super interesting acidity and long finish. It is a unique blend which is typical of southern France, and these grapes have adapted well to the soils of the Uco valley.”