Domaine Bousquet Chardonnay

What a treat this white Chardonnay from Domaine Bousquet in Argentina is! The beautiful, renowned vineyards are located in the Tupungato Uco Valley in Mendoza. It's a unique area, and the vines reach an altitude of 1200 meters, one of the highest in Argentina. This makes the climate perfect for growing the grapes as organic grapes, as is clearly stated on the label. The warm summers with abundant sunshine ensure that the Chardonnay grapes ripen evenly. Their deep roots easily absorb moisture from the rich soil structure, which is crucial for an optimal harvest. But that's not the only thing the Chardonnay grape appreciates. Coolness is also a key factor at Domaine Bousquet. The winds that blow across the Andes and the cool nighttime temperatures contribute to a calm growing season, resulting in a top harvest.

The old Chardonnay vineyard of Domaine Bousquet

The old vines produce full, powerful bunches harvested at ideal ripeness. They are inspected bunch by bunch to ensure only the finest are used in the wine. The Chardonnay bunches are transported in small crates to Domaine Bousquet's press. Harvesting begins in the middle of the night while the grapes are still dormant, preserving their natural freshness. Once pressed, the golden-yellow juice flows into the cellar, where this wine continues to age for several months. Because Domaine Bousquet aims for a Chardonnay where the grape takes center stage, they do not use oak barrels for this wine. And that's reflected in the taste: deliciously drinkable with abundant fruit nuances.

The aroma and taste of the Chardonnay

As we poured, we immediately noticed the beautiful light yellow juice with a faint green tinge. This is promising! We poked our noses into the glass and smelled the pure juice of the Chardonnay grape. Plenty of tropical fruit with hints of citrus, but also definitely some floral notes. The palate is truly beautiful, with a wonderfully thick structure and plenty of vibrant tropical fruit, a touch of red apple and sweet pear complemented by lime and grapefruit. The finish is mildly dry. Just the way a top-notch Chardonnay should taste!