2023 El Enemigo Chardonnay Mendoza

The vines that produce the grapes for this intense and fruity chardonnay were planted at an altitude of 1,470 meters, in Gualtallary, at the northern end of the Uco Valley, on calcium-rich soils. And it behaves like what it is—a mountain white that smells of herbs and white fruits, but above all of herbs. The palate is marked by intense acidity, and the saline finish that is so common, in both red and white wines that come from those Uco soils. A textbook Andean chardonnay.

Alejandro Vigil allows a little flor to develop on the surface of his complex Gualtallary Chardonnay, giving it a salty undertone. Flavours of oatmeal, orange peel and waxed lemons are complemented by some oak spice and sweetness and a drizzle of dried honey.

The 2023 Chardonnay derives from Adrianna Vineyard, was vinified in 500-liter barrique and incorporates some biological aging and a small portion of a five-year-old solera. Leading with a bright, citrus-driven nose bolstered by an elegant nutty richness, the palate is vibrant, textural and seamless, concluding with a succulent and nuanced finish. As with the whole El Enemigo range, this offers a fantastic value that entirely transcends the price point.

The 2023 Chardonnay has a compelling nose of steely green apple but is more defined by its grasp of flinty mineral and texture of wet stone. Quenching acidity underscores a liner, focused, and seamless expression of refined complexity and light-bodied grace.

Salty and spicy, with aromas of ginger, cardamom, lemons and sea salt. The palate is medium- to full-bodied, sharp and pungent, with a precise, saline character. Rich, focused and delicious. From grapes grown in Gualtallary. Fermented and aged in French oak, of which 35% was new. Drink or hold.

The 2023 Chardonnay El Enemigo comes from Gualtallary, Uco Valley. Aged in 500-liter French oak barrels, it opens with green apple, chamomile, white peach, herbs and a subtle vermouth note. Dry, compact and saline, the oak broadens the palate where richness is otherwise restrained. The 2023 is a modern, refined profile for Gualtallary Chardonnay in a warm vintage.