Torontel

Torontel is a white grape variety in the Vitis vinifera species, belonging to the Muscat family. It is known in some regions as Moscatel de Torontel and is grown in parts of Chile and Peru. The variety is valued for its highly aromatic profile, which makes it a preferred component in both wines and grape distillation.

Viticulture and characteristics include late ripening and a tendency toward high sugar levels, with pronounced terpenoid compounds that give intense floral and citrus aromas. Vines can be productive but may require careful management in humid or cool conditions. Clusters are typically medium in size, and the grapes are harvested when the flavors and sugars reach the desired balance for the intended style of wine or spirit.

Wine styles and uses vary by region. Torontel is used to produce aromatic white wines that display perfumed notes of orange blossom, rose, and muscat, often with stone fruit flavors such as peach or apricot. These wines can be dry or off-dry and are also employed in making certain dessert wines. In Peru, Torontel is one of the established grape varieties used for pisco production, contributing its distinctive floral character to the final distillate.

Synonyms and naming distinctions are important, as Torontel should not be confused with Torrontés, an unrelated grape from Argentina. Torontel remains a notably aromatic Muscat-derived variety with a specific cultural presence in Chilean and Peruvian viticulture and distillation.