2018 Salentein Reserve Chardonnay

Bodegas Salentein is located in the Uco valley in Mendoza at an elevation of 4,000 feet above sea level. It was established in the late 1990s on an estate of 5,000 acres, that includes a 125-acre nature preserve. The goal of Salentein is to make high-quality wines while respecting and supporting the people, nature and community from which the wines are created.

Their vineyards, located between 3,445 and 5,577 feet above sea level, are farmed sustainably. Drip irrigation, using mountain water run-off from the melting snow caps of the Andes, results in lower pH levels, giving higher acidity, deeper color and greater aging capacity to the wines.

The Reserve Chardonnay is made from 100% chardonnay grapes. Whole clusters of hand-harvested grapes are pressed in a pneumatic press before fermentation in oak. The resulting wine is golden yellow with green tints. The nose is full of aromas of fresh citrus, pineapple and toasty oak. On the palate the wine has flavors of apple and lemon and a refreshing acidity.

This wine was awarded 92 points by James Suckling who said about this wine, “Attractive hazelnut and toast aromas with hints of coconut and dried herbs, drawing you into this very balanced, medium-bodied chardonnay with a long finish that’s both creamy and fresh.”

This medium-bodied Chardonnay will pair well with fish, chicken, roasted pork, stuffed turkey and roasted vegetables.