Bodega Amalaya Blanco, Argentina

At approximately 1,800 metres above sea level, aromatic Torrontés meets citrus-driven Riesling in 2024 Bodega Amalaya Blanco. This 85/15 blend draws its character from Cafayate’s intense sunlight, cool nights and rocky, sandy soils, balancing floral fragrance and silky texture with crisp acidity and a dry, refreshing finish.

Product Details:

• Grape Varieties: 85% Torrontés and 15% Riesling.
• ABV: 13%.
• Total Acidity: 5.92 g/L.
• pH: 3.23.
• Residual Sugar: 2.44 g/L.
• Fermentation: Slow fermentation at low temperatures using selected yeasts to preserve varietal aromatics.
• Maturation: Three months in stainless steel tanks, followed by two months in bottle.
• Lees Contact: Two months before bottling.
• Harvest Method: Hand-picked, with selection in the vineyard and again on the winery sorting table.
• Harvest Period: January–February 2024.
• Vineyard Sources: Finca San Isidro and Finca Las Mercedes.
• Elevation: Approximately 1,800 metres above sea level.
• Soils: Rocky, sandy and low in nutrients.
• Bottling: May 2024.
• Closure: Screwcap.
• Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian and vegan.
• Owner: Larissa and Christoph Ehrbar.
• Winemaker: Jorge Noguera.

Sensory Description:

Bright gold with green highlights, the wine opens with grapefruit and lemon peel, followed by blossom, green apple, and peach. A delicate, silky texture gives the palate breadth, while lively acidity keeps the fruit clearly defined. Citrus peel and a distinctive mineral impression linger through the dry, crisp finish.

Awards & Accolades:

• 91 Points: Tim Atkin, June 2025.
• 90 Points: Claire Nesbitt, JamesSuckling.com, March 2025.
• 90 Points: Vinous, October 2024.

Winemaker's Background:

Established in 2010, Bodega Amalaya reflects Larissa and Christoph Ehrbar’s vision for fresh, expressive wines from the Calchaquí Valley, continuing the Argentine wine legacy of Donald Hess. Its name means “hope for a miracle,” recalling the offerings farmers made in anticipation of a successful harvest. Part of Grupo Colomé, the winery works with winemaker Jorge Noguera to explore local varieties and complementary blends that express Cafayate’s distinctive growing conditions.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at 8–10°C in a medium-sized white wine glass. Pair with grilled fish, citrus-dressed prawns, vegetable pasta, fresh cheeses or gently spiced Chinese dishes. Enjoy now through 2027 for its floral aromatics, bright fruit and refreshing acidity.