Altaluvia, Chardonnay 2018

Altaluvia is part of Santa Rita estates, which also owns Doña Paula, and Santa Rita in Chile. This Chardonnay comes from some of the highest vineyards in Mendoza: 1300m high in the foothills of the Andes is extreme viticulture, even by South American standards. The altitude, combined with rocky, sandy soil produces grapes of concentration and wonderful texture – texture which is enhanced by 7 months in oak and a further seven in concrete eggs. Lovely sharp sweet nose with sweet hints of stone fruit. Bracing acidity lifts you off your feet on the first sip, then a fine swirl of flavour – fresh stone fruit (not overripe) and grapefruit. It’s perfumed, slightly exotic, but with a seductive freshness and racy minerality that is utterly compelling. Burgundian heft and weight. Delicious