The Aconcagua Valley is one of five principal wine regions in Chile and the Errazuriz Family Estate has come out with a challenging yet balanced 2015 vintage Chardonnay that was a result of a warm spring and lower than average rainfall. The grapes for the Aconcagua Costa Chardonnay come from the Manzanar vineyard, which is around 7.5 miles from the Pacific Ocean. The grapes were planted in 2005 and 2009 in soil that is optimal in mineral notes for the wine. The grapes were then hand picked during early hours of the morning after which they were whole-cluster pressed and cold decanted in stainless steel tanks. Greater complexity was achieved through the use of native and cultured strains of yeasts and after fermentation about 50% of the final blend underwent malolactic fermentation. The wine remained in French oak barrels for ten months.
What resulted was a wine with lively aromas of lemon zest and lime blossom that are underscored with hints of crisp pear and white flowers. The heightened palate was created by a driving minerality and vibrant acidity that carries through on the lingering finish. Overall the unique harvest gave this wine excellent flavor concentration and structure that pairs extremely well with grilled and roasted white meats, seafood, Italian dishes, picnic foods and mild creamy cheeses. Remind yourself of sunshine with this white wine during the remainder of these winter months.
