El Enemigo "The Enemy" Chardonnay 2019 Mendoza - Argentina

Tim Atkins (MW): 95 Points (Best Chardonnay of the year)

Jura was the influence and inspiration for this stunning Chardonnay, aged under flor. Leesy, racy, saline and yeasty, with a core of acidity, subtle oak and a long, tapering finish. A boundary-pushing white for Argentina.”

This is another rock-star chardonnay from here with dried-apple, pear-skin, crushed-stone and peach-pit character. Full body. Creamy texture. Phenolic form and a long, flavorful finish. Drink or hold.

The textbook 2018 El Enemigo Chardonnay had varietal aromas and notes from the barrel, giving it a very attractive profile. But there is a secret: the barrels develop some flor yeasts in the style of Jerez (or Jura) and this gives the wine a spicy twist, hints of curry and white pepper. The wine is silky and the very high acidity is not noticeable. This is a great commercial success, and at the price, it offers great value. 16,000 bottles produced

A Chardonnay from Gualtallary that underwent a carefully calibrated ageing process developed by the winemaker Alejandro Vigil: 500 liters French oak barrels, 35% new, mixed with increasing quantities of flor. Golden yellow in color, the 2018 Chardonnay El Enemigo combines aromas of pear and apple with hazelnuts, toffee and a touch of acacia. Creamy with intense flavors, the film lends a dryness in stark contrast to the ingenious structure that enhances the firm acidity and lengthy, hazelnut finish. A technical, original white inspired by the more forward thinking parts of Burgundy and California with more than a nod to Jura as well.