# Perfiles Calcareo Chardonnay (2022)

- **Producer:** Bodegas Trapiche
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay
- **Region:** Mendoza, Argentina
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.5%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 10–12 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** peach, grapefruit, lemon, apricot, cream, vanilla, cloves, butter, hazelnut, honey, almond

## About this wine

The Perfiles Calcareo Chardonnay 2022 is part of Bodegas Trapiche's 'Perfiles' project, which explores the impact of soil types on grape varietals. This particular Chardonnay emphasizes the influence of chalky soils, drawing parallels to limestone soils found in regions like Burgundy, but adapted to Argentina's climate. The grapes are cultivated in high-altitude vineyards in Gualtallary, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, at approximately 1,300 meters above sea level, on soils derived from old riverbeds. Bodegas Trapiche, established in 1883, is a historic Argentine winery known for its early adoption of French varietals and winemaking techniques. Chief Winemaker Daniel Pi champions biodynamic agriculture and close relationships with vineyard partners. The wine's distinctiveness stems from its expression of this chalky terroir, contributing to its minerality and acidity, alongside careful oak integration.

## Interesting facts

- Chalky soils here echo those of Burgundy and Chablis.
- Vineyards are situated at over 1,300 meters altitude.
- Biodynamic farming practices are employed.
- Wine is fermented in French oak barrels.

## Food pairing

The wine's medium-high acidity provides a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes, cutting through fats in poultry and pork. Its mineral notes complement the subtle flavors of fish and shellfish, while the careful oak integration offers structure that can stand up to more complex preparations.

## Wine making process

The Perfiles Calcareo Chardonnay 2022 begins with hand-harvested grapes that are destemmed and sorted. Fermentation occurs at 15°C in French oak barrels, with 40% of the wine undergoing malolactic fermentation. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for approximately nine months on its lees in 3-to-4-year-old French oak barrels. Bodegas Trapiche employs biodynamic agriculture, aiming for ecosystem balance and avoiding chemical compounds. The 'Perfiles' project specifically focuses on understanding the influence of distinct soil types, such as the chalky soils of Gualtallary, on the resulting wine.