# El Zorrito Naranjo Chardonnay Natural

- **Producer:** Bodega Santa Julia
- **Colour:** orange
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Natural
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €20
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now
- **Aromas & flavours:** orange, peach, apricot, dried apricot, dried fruit, white pepper, cinnamon, almond, hazelnut, honey

## About this wine

Santa Julia's 'El Zorrito' Naranjo Chardonnay Natural is a distinctive orange wine from Maipú, Mendoza, Argentina. Produced by Bodega Santa Julia, a winery dedicated to organic and sustainable practices and honoring the Zuccardi family legacy, this wine is made from 100% organically grown Chardonnay. The name 'El Zorrito' translates to 'the little fox,' inspired by the wildlife found in their vineyards. This wine represents a commitment to minimal intervention winemaking, allowing the pure character of the grape and its terroir to shine through.

## Interesting facts

- El Zorrito means 'the little fox' in Spanish, inspired by vineyard visitors.
- This Chardonnay is vinified like a red wine, with significant skin contact.
- It's a natural wine with no added sulfites and fermented with native yeasts.
- Bodega Santa Julia is a leading producer of organic wines in Argentina.

## Food pairing

The wine's lively acidity and medium body cut through the richness of fatty meats and cheeses, while its subtle tannins complement the protein. The wine's inherent complexity and savory notes make it a versatile partner for robust Argentine flavors and earthy vegetables.

## Wine making process

Santa Julia's 'El Zorrito' Naranjo Chardonnay Natural is crafted using 100% organically grown Chardonnay grapes from Maipú, Mendoza. The winemaking emphasizes minimal intervention. Key techniques include fermentation with indigenous yeasts and an extended post-fermentation maceration period of 45 days with the grape skins, which imparts the wine's characteristic orange hue and texture. No sulfites are added during the process, and the wine is bottled unfiltered to maintain its natural integrity. This approach aims to capture the pure expression of the grape and its environment.