Luca Chardonnay G-Lot 2023

Bodega Luca was founded in 1999 by Laura Catena, working from small old family vineyards in the Uco Valley, a high-altitude sub-region of Mendoza in Argentina. Altitude is the defining factor for Chardonnay here: intense daytime sun ripens the fruit fully while cold mountain nights preserve acidity, giving a wine that is both rich and fresh. The organically farmed grapes are fermented and aged twelve months in oak barrels. That long barrel time drives the wine's texture and complexity through several processes at once: barrel fermentation and lees contact add a creamy weight, malolactic conversion of sharp malic acid to softer lactic acid rounds the palate, and slow oxygen exchange through the wood adds vanilla and toast. The colour is bright gold. The nose is generous, with white peach, melon and pear over vanilla, toasted bread and hazelnut. The palate is full and creamy but kept lively by the altitude-driven acidity, carrying through to a long, nutty finish. Serve at 10 to 12 degrees in a large white glass, giving it a little air. It pairs well with richer fish, roast chicken and nutty cheeses.