Pretty complex, but of texture and length while still being very crisp and fresh — 3 months ago
From an altitude of 4757 feet in Tupungato region. Fossilized animal bones are found in the gravelly sand and limestone. Spectacular! — 5 months ago
Catena Zapata – Adrianna Vineyard “White Stones” Chardonnay 2014
Mendoza, Argentina 🇦🇷
Overview
A single-parcel, 100% Chardonnay sourced from the legendary Adrianna Vineyard, located at extreme altitude in the Gualtallary subregion of Mendoza, among the highest and most distinctive vineyard sites in the Southern Hemisphere. This parcel, known as White Stones, is defined by limestone-rich, calcareous soils that drive tension, minerality, and precision. Fermented and aged with restraint to allow site expression to dominate, this wine delivers a powerful yet cerebral interpretation of Chardonnay.
Aromas & Flavors
Crushed limestone, green apple, lemon zest, and pear skin lead, followed by subtle notes of white flowers, wet stone, and faint almond. Oak is present but discreet, adding texture rather than flavor, allowing the mineral core to shine.
Mouthfeel
Electric and tightly wound. High acidity provides drive and focus, while the palate remains dense and layered. There’s a striking contrast between power and precision, broad on entry, razor-sharp through the mid-palate, and persistent on the finish.
Food Pairings
Raw oysters, scallop crudo, ceviche, grilled halibut, or aged goat cheese. Also compelling on its own for contemplative tasting.
Verdict
A benchmark New World Chardonnay that challenges Old World expectations. Intense, mineral-driven, and intellectually engaging, this is terroir speaking loudly and clearly.
Did You Know?
Adrianna Vineyard sits at nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, where extreme UV exposure, cool nights, and limestone soils contribute to naturally high acidity and profound mineral expression , often compared to Grand Cru Chablis.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
It’s like Chablis on steroids, same mineral backbone and tension, but amplified in scale, depth, and presence. A thrilling wine that always leaves an impression. Also, what’s truly remarkable is how incredibly fresh and vibrant it remains despite being a 2014, showcasing Adrianna Vineyard’s extraordinary altitude, acidity, and aging potential. — 15 days ago
Fortuna Terrae means luck of the land in Latin, aged in oak for 18 months, deep inky Ruby red color with complex aromas of berry fruits, floral, herbs and spicy nose. On the palate flavors of ripe blueberry and cherry fruit with spicy herb, cacao, vanilla and toasty oak. Fine soft chalky tannins, well balanced, good acidity, long finish, almost creamy, ending with fruit, spice and earthy notes. Will last for a decade!! — 14 days ago
Álcool 13,5%.
Mario - 28.02.2025 — 9 months ago
Freddy R. Troya
San Gregorio – Las 75 Vendimias – Red 2021
Calatayud DO – Aragón, Spain 🇪🇸
Overview
A tribute wine honoring Emilio González’s 75 harvests, sourced from old, high-altitude vineyards in Calatayud. This Garnacha-driven blend (70% Garnacha, 30% Tempranillo) captures the rugged character of the region, elevation, stony soils, and traditional viticulture, resulting in a wine that is both expressive and grounded, with warmth, balance, and authenticity.
Aromas & Flavors
Ripe black cherry, wild strawberry, and plum lead, followed by dried Mediterranean herbs, licorice, and gentle baking spice. Subtle earthy and mineral notes emerge with air, reflecting the old-vine origin and high-altitude terroir.
Mouthfeel
Medium-to-full bodied with rounded, supple tannins. Garnacha brings generosity and warmth, while Tempranillo adds structure and grip. Fresh acidity keeps the wine lively and balanced through a smooth, savory finish.
Food Pairings
Grilled lamb, herb-roasted chicken, mushroom dishes, lentil stews, aged Manchego, or rustic Spanish fare with olive oil, roasted peppers, and slow-cooked meats.
Verdict
A soulful, well-priced Spanish red that delivers true sense of place. Honest, expressive, and comforting, this is old-vine Garnacha done right, approachable now, yet structured enough to hold its own at the table.
Did You Know?
Calatayud is one of Spain’s highest-altitude DOs, with many vineyards planted between 700–1,000 meters, helping Garnacha retain freshness and balance even in warm vintages.
🍷 Personal Pick Highlight
This is real Spain in a glass, old vines, elevation, history, and soul. A wine I happily recommend when authenticity matters more than flash. — 8 days ago