Technical Data Sheet: Torontel Pisco Grape

 "You want to know the difference between a master and a beginner? The master has failed more times than the beginner has ever tried." Yoda

Technical Data Sheet: Torontel Pisco Grape

(Updated with molecular data 2022)

Common name: Torontel

Synonyms: Torrontel (old spelling), not to be confused with Argentine Torrontés

Species: Vitis vinifera L.

Type: Aromatic white variety

Main use in Peru: Pisco production (Pure, Blended – Acholado, Green Must pisco – Mosto Verde)

Secondary use: Table grape in rural areas; occasionally vinified as a dry or semi-dry white wine.

Origin and Classification

Torontel cultivated in Peru is a European variety which, according to a recent molecular study, results from a natural cross between Listán Prieto and Muscat of Alexandria, thus placing it among the so-called criolla group.

It shares no genetic identity with the Torrontés varieties.

Ampelographic Characteristics

Sigh Golden yellow, sometimes sun-bronzed

Berry shape Round

Cluster Conical; loose, medium to large size

Pulp Colorless, juicy, no pigmentation

Plant vigor Vigorous

Harvest period Mainly March (in warm zones: late February)

Cultivation zones Ica Valleys (Santiago, Ocucaje), Moquegua, Arequipa; more recently Lima (Cañete, Pativilca)

Aromatic Profile – Some Descriptors of Torontel Pisco 

Appearance: Clear, colorless, bright

Nose: Fresh aromas, flowers, jasmine, orange blossom, citrus, lime, orange, mandarin, white fruit, peach, sweet, blancmange, tropical fruits, mango, pineapple, melon, passion fruit, herbal teas, chamomile, lemon verbena, fresh herbs, golden raisins

Palate: Warm, fresh entry, with repeated aromas of citrus fruit, orange, white fruit, peach, herbal teas, lemon verbena, golden raisins, and a lime peel finish.

Elegant and complex, with good retronasal persistence

Technical Notes

According to the molecular study published in the scientific journal Vitis (61, 2022, 51–58), Peruvian Torontel (Riojano, Sanjuanino, Mendocino) or Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains is a distinct variety:

Enjoy pisco responsibly.

See you next time!

@elmagozurdo

July 2025

spanish

Where pisco is the only protagonist!

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